Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
relativism
Noun
/ˈrɛlətɪˌvɪzəm/
Definition
The doctrine that knowledge, truth, and morality exist in relation to culture, society, or historical context, and are not absolute.
Examples
- The concept of moral relativism is often debated in philosophy classes.
- Relativism posits that different societies have different beliefs, each legitimate in its context.
- Some argue that relativism leads to an inability to critique harmful practices in other cultures.
Meaning
Relativism suggests that what is true or valid for one person or culture may not be for another, emphasizing the idea that perspectives and experiences shape our understanding of what is real or right.
Synonyms
- Contextualism
- Cultural relativism
- Moral relativism
