Discord is the great ill of mankind; and tolerance is the only remedy for it.

This quote by Voltaire suggests that the primary source of human suffering is discord or conflict, and the only antidote to this is tolerance. In essence, it is a call for understanding and acceptance of differences. Discord, as used in this context, refers to strife, disagreement, or disharmony among people. This could be due to differences in opinions, beliefs, values, or simply misunderstandings. According to Voltaire, this discord is the root cause of most problems humanity faces.

Tolerance, on the other hand, is the acceptance of the existence and validity of different views or beliefs. It does not necessarily mean agreeing with them, but rather acknowledging and respecting them. Voltaire suggests that tolerance is the only remedy for discord; by being more accepting of others’ differences, we can reduce conflict and promote harmony.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we see a range of conflicts, from political disagreements to religious strife, racial tension, and even personal disputes. These conflicts often stem from a lack of understanding or acceptance of others’ perspectives or identities. Voltaire’s quote suggests that if we were more tolerant – more willing to accept and respect these differences – we could alleviate much of this discord.

In terms of personal development, this quote can be seen as a call to cultivate a more tolerant and accepting mindset. We often encounter people who hold views or beliefs that differ from our own. Instead of reacting with hostility or defensiveness, we can choose to respond with tolerance. This does not mean we have to agree with them, but we can respect their right to hold different opinions. By doing so, we can reduce personal conflict, improve our relationships, and contribute to a more peaceful society.