A Cambridge University Press publication

Today’s resurgence of global strife, polarization, and neo-nationalism is unprecedented in scale and intensity since the end of the Cold War. In the context of such dramatic changes, there is anxiety leading many to cling to absolute certitudes that the world is segmented into distinct, dichotomous divisions: developed versus undeveloped; democratic versus dictatorial; tolerant versus intolerant.

Yet, when taking a long term view extending over decades and delving into the vastness of geographical spaces, it becomes obvious that such beliefs are hopelessly decoupled from reality. This book evidences the relativity of these beliefs by examining an issue that has divided countries, nations and peoples: tolerance, particularly as reflected in state acts towards religious property. It does so without wanting to expound opinions but rather to verify facts; without simplifying but rather to show complexity; and without judging but rather to comprehend. ..

Video Abstract

Read the Tolerance of Informality (Cambridge University Press, 2026) here.

The Tolerance of Informality is very timely...

read carefully this work to open new possibilities in [your] minds.

Kishore Mahbubani

Former President of the United Nations Security Council