The role of religious tolerance in ensuring social stability and peace: perspectives from J. Locke to J. Habermas

This paper analyses how religious tolerance has influenced the formation of social stability and peace within historical and philosophical contexts, from the ideas of J. Locke to the modern concepts of J. Habermas. The evolution of ideas on religious tolerance in European political and social thought is examined, with an emphasis on key works that highlight its importance for democratic societies. The study is based on a comparative analysis of philosophical concepts that substantiate the role of religious pluralism as a foundation for social harmony. The results indicate that the ideas of J. Locke laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of human rights, while J. Habermas refined these approaches, adapting them to the realities of pluralistic societies. In particular, it was found that countries where the principles of religious tolerance are enshrined in legislation demonstrate higher levels of social unity and fewer religious conflicts.