What is ethical relativism?

Ethical relativism can best be described as a point of view that morality is relative to the norms of one’s culture. This perspective suggests that what is considered right or wrong can vary from one society to another, and that there are no absolute moral standards that apply universally to all individuals, regardless of cultural context.

For example, practices that are deemed acceptable in one culture may be viewed as immoral in another. Ethical relativism encourages us to understand and respect these differences instead of imposing our own moral beliefs onto others. However, critics argue that this relativism might lead to a lack of accountability or justification for harmful practices within societies. Ultimately, it emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in discussions of morality.

More Related Questions