disadvantages of cultural relativism essay

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Cultural Relativism: Advantages and Disadvantages

Introduction.

Cultural relativism theory argues that a person’s beliefs and actions are supposed to be judged depending on one’s culture. They further state that “bad” and “good” are defined by a people’s culture. This means that what is regarded as ethical in a certain culture may be regarded as unethical by another culture. Since there are no specific ethical practices that are accepted by all, it follows then that no individual is supposed to judge other people’s traditions. For instance, human sacrifice is no right or wrong objectively. Somewhat, it is right in the culture that accepts it and wrong in the culture that condemns it. Cultural relativism is the belief that all cultures are equal in that no culture is greater than another in terms of issues like politics, law, and ethics. This theory argues that all cultural values are evenly legitimate. Moreover, they state that truth is relative concerning cultural background. Relativists also feel that every spiritual, moral, artistic, and political principle is totally relative to the person in a cultural individuality. (Alberta Education, 2007)

One advantage of cultural relativism is the idea of accepting other cultures and the way of life of other societies. This theory is practical when an individual is trying to fit in a different culture. Issues such as dressing and how to act are avoided and the individuals are accepted in the other society as they are without reservations. This is because relativism theory argues that the activities of another society are acceptable and other people should positively understand their actions since they are right to them. No other person has the right to state that what other people believe in is wrong. This theory gives the impression that one society should not try to impose its values or beliefs on another culture. In this way, cultural superiority is avoided as all people consider all cultures equal. Cultural relativism is suitable for different respects of our societies. For instance, things like food, clothing, and language differ with every society and their relative difference is important in every culture. (Waller, 2008)

The disadvantage of cultural relativism is that it does not give an opportunity to pass judgments even when errors are made. The issue of declaring that all practices are totally relative to the society that believes in them does not give room to judge when an issue is definitely going against human rights. For instance, cultural relativists would declare that the Nazi culture was right in the way they murdered millions of Jews simply because they believed it was right. To the cultural relativists, this is not good or bad, but merely a cultural difference similar to the American culture of shooting fireworks every Fourth of July. This shows that human life is not respected thus making cultural relativism illogical in the way it depicts issues. This is because this theory does not allow an outsider to assess another culture’s way of life even if it is inhuman conditions. The theory does not accept the idea of common right and wrong in society. This denial of a common right or wrong does not fit well with many societies because they share certain values. For instance, many societies have a common belief that killing another person is wrong. (Waller, 2008)

Cultural relativism is a debate that has been in our societies for a long time. Cultural relativists feel that people in the world should learn to accept the practices of other societies without interfering in their actions. This has not been taken well by those opposed to cultural relativism since they feel that wrong and right should be universal. The idea of accepting cultural practices that break human rights is opposed by many in society. Cultural relativism does not allow other societies to judge the wrong in a certain culture and this has brought misunderstandings with other cultures. It is the choice of every person to determine what is wrong and what is right within society.

Alberta Education. (2007). Judging Cultural Practices . Web.

Waller, B. N. (2008). Consider Ethics: Theory, Readings, and Contemporary Issues  (2nd Ed). New York: Pearson/Longman.

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Cultural Relativism: 30 Advantages and Disadvantages

Oct 25, 2023

Cultural relativism is a prominent concept in the realm of anthropology and ethics. This article explores 30 distinct advantages and disadvantages associated with cultural relativism, shedding light on its complex and often debated implications for understanding diverse cultures and ethical frameworks.

Cultural relativism is the idea that the values, beliefs, and practices of a particular culture should be understood and judged within the context of that culture, rather than from an external, ethnocentric standpoint. Advocates argue that this approach fosters tolerance, respect, and a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity, as it refrains from imposing one’s own cultural standards onto others. However, like any philosophical concept, cultural relativism has its share of strengths and weaknesses that continue to spark intellectual and ethical debates.

What is Cultural Relativism? 

In a world where diverse cultures collide and intermingle, the concept of cultural relativism emerges as a guiding principle that encourages us to understand, respect, and appreciate the rich tapestry of human societies. 

Cultural relativism, in its essence, is a philosophical stance that underscores the belief that no single set of values, norms, or moral standards can be universally applied to judge all cultures. It recognizes the inherent diversity of human societies, acknowledging that what is considered “right” or “wrong” varies across different cultural contexts. This notion has far-reaching implications for anthropology, ethics, and global diplomacy.

At its core, cultural relativism asks us to suspend our ethnocentrism, the tendency to judge other cultures based on the standards of our own. Instead, it prompts us to view cultures through their unique lenses, appreciating that what may be deemed acceptable in one society could be reprehensible in another.

The driving force behind cultural relativism is the acknowledgment that cultural norms and values are not arbitrary but are shaped by a complex interplay of historical, geographical, social, and economic factors. Consider, for instance, the practice of arranged marriages in certain societies. While it may seem restrictive to some, it is seen as a harmonious union of families in others.

Moreover, cultural relativism does not advocate for moral indifference or cultural superiority. It is not a blanket endorsement of every practice or belief. Rather, it encourages us to engage in nuanced discussions, evaluating cultural practices within their own contexts. By doing so, we can better understand the roots of these practices and potentially find areas where meaningful dialogue and change can occur.

Cultural relativism has been both celebrated and criticized in academic circles and beyond. Critics argue that it can lead to moral relativism, where any behavior, no matter how harmful, is excused in the name of cultural understanding. Defenders assert that it is a powerful tool for fostering empathy, tolerance, and cross-cultural collaboration.

In a world increasingly marked by globalization, the question of how cultures interact and coexist becomes paramount. Cultural relativism, with its roots deep in the annals of anthropology and philosophy, offers us a lens through which we can better comprehend the complex web of human values. It urges us to engage in meaningful conversations about our shared humanity while respecting the distinct paths we have all traveled to arrive at our respective worldviews.

In essence, cultural relativism is a call to embrace the pluralistic nature of our world, to revel in the mosaic of human societies, and to, above all, appreciate the kaleidoscope of beliefs and practices that make our global tapestry so brilliantly diverse. It is a guiding principle for an era where cultural encounters and exchanges are the heartbeat of our interconnected world.

The Biggest Advantages of Cultural Relativism

1. Respects Cultural Diversity – cultural relativism encourages respect and valuing each culture’s differences such as their practices and perspectives. This implies that there is no superior or inferior culture and that richer cultures are superior to human civilization. It promotes cultural understanding and empathy that can foster collaboration for a more harmonious and interconnected world.

2. Avoids Ethnocentrism – ethnocentrism refers to the evaluation of other cultures according to the standards and customs of one’s culture. Cultural relativism helps prevent ethnocentrism suggesting that you cannot judge other cultures because in your culture you are doing it. For example, if you are good at speaking English it doesn’t mean that others should too because they have their norms in speaking.

3. Cultural Preservation – Cultural relativism helps preserve traditional customs and practices. It is important for the conservation of own identity and the continuity of smaller and older cultural groups. Common examples of this are the restoration of historical buildings and the recording of traditional tales.

4. Promotes Tolerance – Cultural relativism urges individuals to actively embrace open-mindedness and acknowledge that other cultures may possess valid reasons for their beliefs and practices. For example, they are eating a food that is strange to your “normal” kind of food yet you cannot judge their food because it may have a valid reason why they are eating it.

5. Anthropological Understanding – it is a fundamental concept in anthropology (anthropology refers to the study of human societies and cultures and their development). It helps the researchers to approach cultures without prejudiced biases.

6. Avoids Cultural Imperialism – Cultural imperialism refers to the imposition by one usually a politically or economically dominant community of different aspects of its own culture to another nondominant community.

7. Cultural Self-Determination – Cultural relativism supports the idea that all cultures have the right to determine their values and norms. For example, the Maori people of New Zealand have advocated for their cultural determination just like pushing their control over their ancestral lands, language revitalization, and protection for their sacred sites. In return, this movement has led to legal and political changes in New Zealand with Maori people’s self-determination successfully recognized by the government.

8. Reduces Conflict – Cultural relativism helps acknowledge cultural differences that lead to reducing conflicts from possible cultural clashes.

9. Cultural Exchange – cultural exchange with the help of the principles of cultural relativism promotes an interaction of different cultures learning and sharing. It emphasizes the concept of open-mindedness and willingness to engage with different cultural perspectives, practices, and traditions leading to a harmonious understanding of the world.

10. Promotes Relativism in Ethics – Cultural relativism supports the idea that ethics are not absolute and can vary in different cultures. It eventually leads to a more open and flexible framework. Ethical framework refers to a system of moral principles that guide our actions and help us make the right choices.

11. Enhances Cross-Cultural Understanding – cultural relativism also helps a deeper understanding of different cultures. It helps in a way that it lets us see things from other culture’s perspective.

12. Preserve Cultural Heritage – It helps in preserving cultural heritage, including languages, customs, and traditions.

13. Human Rights Consideration – Cultural relativism helps acknowledge that human rights may differ from different cultures. It helps to understand the differences between universal human rights versus culturally specific rights. Universal rights means that the same human rights should apply to everyone regardless of culture while cultural relativist believes that human rights should take account of cultural differences.

14. Breaking Stereotypes – it breaks the stereotypes and biased opinions about other cultures. It also promotes a more refined view of different cultures.

15. Encourages Cultural Sensitivity – Cultural relativism encourages individuals to be more culturally sensitive and aware in a diverse world.

Disadvantages of Cultural Relativism

1. Moral Relativism – Cultural relativism can lead to moral relativism. Moral relativism suggests that individuals and cultures can have varying perspectives on what is right or wrong. It implies that morality depends on individual views or group conventions rather than universal morality. Bribery may be common in other cultures, but that doesn’t imply it’s okay.

2. Inhibits Progress –When cultural practices like gender discrimination and other abuses are justified, they may impede social progress.

3. No Moral Critique – Cultural relativism can potentially allow injustice and oppression within a culture. It can potentially prevent the moral critique for following harmful practices in a culture.

4. Lack of Human Rights – Cultural relativism can also compromise human rights universally. It may be difficult to address other global issues just like genocide or slavery.

5. Cultural Stagnation –It may keep other cultures stuck and inhibit them from changing.

6. Justifies Discrimination – Using cultural relativism to justify discrimination against minority groups within a culture is possible.

7. No Basis for Evaluation – There is no objective basis for evaluating different cultural practices. It can also hinder in determining for a better morality.

8. No Cultural Improvement – Cultural resistance to change, especially to improve living conditions or relieve suffering, may hamper attempts.

9. No Cross-Cultural Standard – No cross-cultural norm exists to resolve cultural conflicts or ethical difficulties.

10. Incompatible with Human Rights – Cultural relativism conflicts with universal human rights since some cultures abuse them. An example of this is FGM (female genital mutilation) which some cultures are practicing for their cultural reasons but FGM for human rights is condemned as a violation of several fundamental rights. It includes the right to life, the right to be free from cruelty, and the right to bodily integrity.

11. Selective Application – One can selectively apply cultural relativism in a certain situation. Some of the powerful cultures are using it to justify their actions while condemning others.

12. Cultural Tolerance Vs. Moral Tolerance – This can confuse cultural tolerance with moral tolerance.

13. Ethical Dilemmas – it is difficult to resolve ethical dilemmas with cultural relativism. It may conflict with the cultural norms against human rights and common morality.

14. Cultural Change Suppression –Culture-based opposition may delay culturally beneficial developments like technology and medicine that could help them.

15. Undermines Critical Thinking – Cultural relativism encourages conformity to cultural norms rather than critical thinking and moral reflection.

Read Also: Top 30 Disadvantages of Cultural Exchange

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16 Cultural Relativism Advantages and Disadvantages

If there is one universal truth to be found in life, it is that people are continually changing. Humanity is continually evolving and adapting to new circumstances. This evolutionary process allows us to develop in ways that our ancestors never thought possible.

Cultural relativism is a process which encourages the individual to define the rightness or wrongness of their ethics and morality on their own circumstances. It gives people an opportunity to change who they are at a core level without suffering consequences because of those actions. It eliminates the rigid rules that societies often create, sometimes unwritten, that require people to think, speak, and act in specific ways.

In the process of cultural relativism removes all definitions from a society. It always promotes an individualistic perspective. Every person must have their own moral code which they choose to follow.

There are specific advantages and disadvantages to review when looking at a society that is based on this concept. These are the critical cultural relativism pros and cons to consider.

List of the Pros of Cultural Relativism

1. Cultural relativism removes the power of societal conditioning. There is no longer a need to conform to society as an individual when cultural relativism is the driving force. You are no longer required to adapt to the beliefs, thoughts, or attitudes of the groups that surround you. It is up to you to charge your own course through life. This process stops the slow degradation that all societies face when everyone tries to be just like anyone else.

2. Cultural relativism allows for the creation of individual moral codes. The structures of cultural relativism allow each person to consult with the expectations of their culture or society to determine what they believe is right or wrong. This process creates a simple test which dictates how each individual reacts when they counter specific circumstances. You are always in charge of what you believe is a moral choice. You decide of actions are permitted or disallowed. Although this structure can define morality outside of what would be considered traditional rules, societies create a culture which invites inclusion over structure exclusion in almost every circumstance.

3. Cultural relativism does not rely on moral relativism. The theory of cultural relativism treats each culture as an individual. The moral codes of each person, along with each expectation, are implemented by those who defined themselves through that individuality. Some cultures may prefer restrictions. Others might prefer full inclusion. It is a process which encourages each person to do what makes the most sense for them to achieve their definition of ethics and morality in each situation.

4. Cultural relativism creates a society which is free from judgment. One of the primary advantages of cultural relativism is that it completely removes negative judgments from individual interaction. We’ve become so trained as humans to judge others when we see something different that half the time we don’t even think about it. Anytime we push someone down to lift ourselves up, we have judged that person to be inferior to our superiority.

Cultural relativism takes this all the way. Even if someone disagrees with how you define your moral code in the structure, your morality equates to their morality exactly. You both have the opportunity to define the expectations of life that you follow.

5. Cultural relativism preserves human culture. When you trace the history of humanity through time, you find that societies are diverse in their ideas, traditions, and practices. We often set aside this history because we’re attempting to conform to the expectations that third parties place upon us. This structure does not require anyone to trade any of their culture at any time. You decide, just like everyone else chooses, what is the best course of action to take in every situation.

6. Cultural relativism encourages respect. Even though there is a focus on individuality within a society that practice is cultural relativism, there is also respect for their diversity. Different ideas and ethnicities are frequently celebrated. This system promotes individual definitions instead of group definitions as an evolutionary process, which allows each person to pursue goals through their own perspective while focusing on their natural strengths. No one is ever forced to conform to a specific set of rules or values as a way to achieve success.

7. Cultural relativism promotes cooperation. Humanity is strong because we are diverse. Each person offers a different perspective on life that is based on their thoughts, education, and experiences. These differences should not be a foundation for fear. They ought to be the basis of cooperation. We are able to do more as a team then we are as individuals. By combining each unique set of values with individualized moral descriptions, productivity levels quickly rise.

8. Cultural relativism creates a society which is authentically equal. The traditional society forces people to rise to the top by climbing over other people along the way. You are encouraged to discriminate against anyone if success as your primary goal. Cultural relativism prevents this because it encourages each person to define the path they must follow. There will still be people who choose a skin color preference, or a gender preference, or a sexual orientation preference over others. What you will find with the structure, however, is that the plethora of individual perspectives melts into a society which is able to create great things.

List of the Cons of Cultural Relativism

1. Cultural relativism creates a society that is fueled through personal bias. People grow up in specific environments where different truths are taught. Some families are incredibly inclusive, while others focus on racial bias. Cultural relativism encourages individuals to form alliances with those who have similar perspectives instead of sharing different outcomes. Community segregation occurs frequently because of the discomfort levels which occur when different definitions are present. People will always follow their own moral codes and ethics at the expense of others in a society with the structure.

2. Cultural relativism only works if humanity is perfect. Most people would agree that the average person tries to do good things every day. The average individual would like to see everyone have the opportunity to pursue their dreams or goals in some way. It is these concepts which create a temptation to follow the processes is defined by cultural relativism. The issue in doing so is that every person is fallible. Humans lie, cheat, and steal. We can get angry when something doesn’t go our way, and that puts ourselves and our families at risk. There must be a moral code that governs groups in society to create enough checks and balances to deal with these imperfections.

Without this accompanying structure, the moral codes of the individual would reign supreme. That means we would be operating on the idea of perfection while pursuing imperfection.

3. Cultural relativism drives people away from one another. C.S. Lewis described what environment focused on cultural relativism would be like in his work called “The Screwtape Letters.” Each person what attempt to get as far away as possible from every other individual to escape whatever personal demons they would have. There would be no guarantees in a society like this that you would ever be safe. Someone’s moral code could dictate that you need to die because that will help that person feel better. Although the theory suggests that it would embrace diversity, the reality is that people would isolate themselves as a way to protect their lives.

4. Cultural relativism would create a world of chaos. The idea that someone could follow their own moral code at any time because there is no concrete definition of right or wrong would create chaos. Anyone could harm any other person at any time. You could take something from the store because you felt like it was the right thing to do. You could disobey any of the laws (assuming there were some enforced) because you felt that they were unjustly applied. Only the strongest would survive this type of situation, which brings it closer to an apocalyptic version of the future instead of something that is realistic.

5. Cultural relativism would promote a lack of diversity. The only diversity that cultural relativism promotes is the individual perspective. All of the rights that so many of our ancestors fought to have for generations would disappear instantly with this societal format. The only standards that people could follow in this scenario would be the ones that they set for themselves. Each person will then pursue their own position of strength. It is impossible to create a society that is diverse when the emphasis on success is based on selfish accomplishments.

6. Cultural relativism allows opinions and perceptions to become universal truths. Any theory becomes the truth if cultural relativism is implemented for society. What you think or feel becomes a reality, even if you imagined things. That is the most significant disadvantage of this concept. An opinion instantly becomes fact. Perceptions become real. You could make up a story, included in your personal morality, and there would be nothing that anyone could do to stop you from achieving whatever outcome it is that you wanted.

7. Cultural relativism would limit the progress of humanity. Some people see the concept of cultural relativism as an evolution of the human experience. The reality of this idea, however, is that it would limit our progress. If you remove judgment from a society completely, then there are no standards to follow. We would no longer have the ability to effectively compare different societies, past or present, to chart away toward the future. There could be no real definition of success for humanity because we would all be operating within an individual culture. Even though each person could see personal progress, there would be billions of people all going in different directions at the same time.

These cultural relativism pros and cons our reflection of the possible outcomes which would occur should this theoretical system be implemented at some point. It is an idea which was initially proposed by Franz Boas in the late 19th century and has never been implemented on a scale that would affect alarm society. If we were to follow this idea, then we would be creating individualized cultures, not group societies, and that would change the world as we know it.

17 Cultural Relativism Advantages and Disadvantages

People change. Cultures change. Humanity is constantly evolving, developing, and adapting. When cultural relativism is implemented, then the ability to evolve and adapt is encouraged because the definitions of ethical and moral “right” and “wrong” can change as people change. Cultural relativism eliminates the rigidity that societies have in place regarding ethics, conduct, and reasoning.

It also means that there are no actual definitions that are in place for a society. Cultural relativism promotes an individualistic perspective which governs how a person acts, thinks, and responds. Each person can set their own moralistic codes which they follow.

There are additional cultural relativism advantages and disadvantages to consider when looking at this theory. Here are some of the key points to consider.

What are the Advantages of Cultural Relativism?

1. It is a system which promotes cooperation. For the most part, humanity is strong because of the differences we all have. Every individual has a different perspective that is based on their upbringing, experiences, and personal thoughts. By embracing the many differences we have, the cooperation creates the potential for a stronger society. Each individual definition of success allows us to pursue stronger bonds with one another and potentially achieve more because there are no limitations from a group level and what can or cannot be accomplished.

2. It creates a society where equality is possible. In any society, people rise by climbing on top of other people. It is a socially acceptable way of creating discrimination. We see this today in the wage gap that women face, the educational opportunities that minority groups face, and the violence we see because of political oppression. Cultural relativism allows the individual to define their moral code without defining the moral code of others. Each person is separate in such a society. That separation creates equality because each person can set their own definition of success.

3. People can pursue a genuine interest. In the modern society, people are funneled toward certain career options because of their circumstances. If you can’t afford to go to college, then you pursue a vocational career or some sort of entrepreneurship instead of a career that requires a graduate degree. If you can’t afford to buy a house, you go rent an apartment. In cultural relativism, you get to pursue your own interests without restriction. You set the definitions of what you can have and what you cannot have. When implemented successfully, each person would get to focus on their strengths instead of their weaknesses.

4. Respect is encouraged in a system of cultural relativism. People come from different cultures. They have different ideas. They pursue different definitions of success. Because such a system promotes the individual’s definition instead of a group definition, a society can evolve because there is a natural level of respect built into the process. Each person is naturally given the right to pursue life through their own specific perspective and then learn from their experiences in a way that works best for them.

5. It preserves human cultures. Humanity is a very diverse set of thoughts, traditions, ideas, and practices. Many times, the traditions of humanity are set aside so that a group set of standards can be appeased. Native and First Nations tribes in North America did this by signing treaties which would help them to preserve some lands, but limit their rights by being subject to a new governmental authority. They were forced to trade some of their culture. Under the theory of cultural relativism, such a trade would not be necessary. It wouldn’t even be a consideration.

6. Cultural relativism creates a society without judgment. We are so trained to judge others in today’s world that we don’t even give it a second thought. Looking at someone and saying, “Glad that isn’t me,” is a judgment. Under the theory of cultural relativism, judgment goes away. The only person that judges you is yourself. People who might disagree with you are able to set their own codes and standards for their own individualistic bubble. Instead of worrying about others, you only worry about yourself.

7. Moral relativism can be excluded from cultural relativism. Each culture can be treated as an individual under the theory of cultural relativism. This means the moral codes of a culture can be defined and an expectation implemented that people follow it. Although other cultures may not setup such a restriction, and others might say such a restriction isn’t a true form of cultural relativism, people in such a system can do what makes the most sense for them. You’re focusing on the customs of a culture, not the morality that is imposed upon those customs.

8. We can create personal moral codes based on societal standards with ease. To determine if a decision would be “right” or “wrong,” cultural relativism allows individuals to consult with the standards of their society or culture. It is a simple test to determine the course that a person should take in such a circumstance. By consulting with the moral code of the culture, one question must be asked: does the action conform to the cultural moral code? If it does, then the action is permitted. Although this process can allow for disturbing results, most cultures are based on inclusion instead of exclusion. It is only in structures where apartheid, segregation, or purging where disturbing outcomes are typically present.

9. It stops cultural conditioning. People tend to adapt their attitudes, thoughts, and beliefs to the people they are with on a regular basis. This is cultural conditioning and it prevents people from having an individualistic perspective. Cultural relativism stops this.

What Are the Disadvantages of Cultural Relativism?

1. It creates a system that is fueled by personal bias. Every society has a certain natural bias to it because of how humanity operates. People tend to prefer to be with others who have similar thoughts and feelings, so they segregate themselves into neighborhoods, communities, and social groups that share specific perspectives. When people are given the power to define their own moral code, then they will do so based on their own personal bias. There is no longer a group perspective. People follow their own code at the expense of others.

2. It would create chaos. People who can follow their own moral code because there is no “wrong” or “right” would be allowed to pursue any life they preferred under the theory of cultural relativism. If you’re upset with your neighbor, then you can kill that person without consequence if your moral code allows for murder. Instead of purchasing something, you could steal it if you see stealing as “right” to do. There is no real way to protect people in such a society, so each person becomes responsible to protect themselves. It creates a system that is Darwinian in practicality, where only the strongest can survive.

3. It is an idea that is based on the perfection of humanity. Many people strive to do good every day. Most want to see everyone have the chance to pursue happiness in some way. That is why the idea of cultural relativism often seems to be inviting. The only problem is that people are not perfect. We can be forgetful. We can lie. We can become aggressive when a driver cuts you off while driving and puts your family at risk. Without a group moral code in place to govern decisions, anything could happen when we experience these moments of imperfection.

4. It could promote a lack of diversity. Cultural relativism promotes an individualistic point of view, so although it seems to promote diversity, it actually removes it from a society. Cultural relativism would allow slavery to return to the US South. It would allow men to exclude women from voting once again. It would stop employers from paying someone a fair wage – or even paying them a wage at all. The only standards that are in place are those which are set by the individual involved, which means everyone is pursuing their own position of strength. We cannot create diversity when the emphasis of a society is individualistic gain that can come at the expense of others.

5. It draws people away from one another. Although cultural relativism can promote people coming together to share their strengths, it can also encourage people to draw apart from one another. C.S. Lewis, in his description of Hell from The Screwtape Letters, envisions a place where people are constantly going away from each other to avoid the demons that each person has. Because each person is uncertain of what codes and standards another is following, the natural inclination for self-preservation causes people to draw away. You might develop a close-knit community at first, but as Lewis describes, each demon causes people to back away from one another instead of coming closer.

6. It could limit moral progress. When we look at the idea of moral progress, we think of becoming more inclusionary instead of exclusionary. This inclusion is reflected in the laws and customs of the culture. The current debate on the transgender bathroom laws in North Carolina and Texas is a good example of this. In cultural relativism, everyone would be able to use their bathroom of choice OR a culture could state that everyone must use a specific bathroom without exception and there would be complete agreement in either choice. Within the society, either choice would be seen as moral progress, but in reality, it could hold people back.

7. It could limit humanity’s progress. We often think of the concept of cultural relativism as progression, but it isn’t necessarily that way. When you remove the ability to judge one standard from another, then the comparative process of placing a current society or culture against a past one is removed as well. No definition of success can be implemented because each is successful in its own way. We might consider the ability for women to vote as the “right” thing to do today, but in past societies, not allowing women to vote was also “right” from a cultural standpoint. Because both are “right,” there’s no way to judge progress.

8. Cultural relativism can turn perceptions into truths. It’s a dark night and it is warm outside. An African-American teen is walking down an alley wearing a hoodie and the hood is up. His hands are jammed into his pockets and there is a bulge in one of them. In this scenario, some people may automatically assume that the teen is up to “no good.” The bulge might even be a weapon under that assumption. In the world of cultural relativism, that bias becomes a truth that can be acted upon. It doesn’t matter if the bulge is a gun or a package of Skittles. The decision to act becomes a righteous one because of the individual truth that the culture allowed through the bias it perpetrates.

The cultural relativism advantages and disadvantages which are discussed are based on the theoretical implementation of such a system. Originally proposed by Franz Boas in 1887, it is an idea that has never been implemented on a large scale. Moral standards make sense in a person’s culture. By creating individualized cultures, on singular or larger scales, it does become easier to keep and embrace the traditions that humanity has developed over the millennia.

20 Pros and Cons of Cultural Relativism

Cultural relativism is a concept in anthropology and sociology that suggests that an individual’s beliefs, values, and practices should be understood based on that person’s own culture, rather than be judged against the criteria of another culture. This approach promotes the idea that no culture is inherently superior or inferior to another, and that understanding and tolerance are crucial in a globalized world where cultural interactions are increasingly common.

However, cultural relativism is not without its controversies. While it encourages respect for diversity and reduces ethnocentrism, it also raises complex ethical questions about the limits of tolerance, particularly when cultural practices conflict with universal human rights.

This article will delve into the pros and cons of cultural relativism, offering a comprehensive exploration of its impact on society, ethics, and global interactions. By understanding both the advantages and the potential pitfalls of cultural relativism, readers can gain a nuanced perspective on this important but contentious concept.

Pros Of Cultural Relativism

1. promotes tolerance and understanding.

One of the most significant advantages of cultural relativism is that it promotes tolerance and understanding among different cultures. By encouraging individuals to view cultural practices and beliefs within their own context, cultural relativism fosters an environment where people are more open to learning about and accepting differences. This understanding can lead to more harmonious interactions between diverse groups and reduce the likelihood of conflicts arising from cultural misunderstandings.

2. Reduces Ethnocentrism

Cultural relativism plays a critical role in reducing ethnocentrism—the belief that one’s own culture is superior to others. Ethnocentrism can lead to prejudice, discrimination, and cultural imperialism, where dominant cultures impose their values on others. By advocating for the equal validity of all cultures, cultural relativism challenges ethnocentric attitudes and promotes a more inclusive and respectful worldview.

3. Encourages Cultural Preservation

In a world increasingly influenced by globalization, cultural relativism helps protect and preserve cultural diversity. By recognizing the value of different cultural practices and beliefs, cultural relativism supports the preservation of unique traditions, languages, and customs that might otherwise be lost. This is particularly important for indigenous cultures and minority groups, whose ways of life are often threatened by dominant cultural forces.

4. Supports Ethical Pluralism

Cultural relativism is closely associated with ethical pluralism, the idea that there are many valid moral perspectives rather than a single universal truth. This perspective allows for a broader understanding of morality, recognizing that different cultures may have different ethical frameworks based on their unique histories, environments, and social structures. By supporting ethical pluralism, cultural relativism encourages a more nuanced approach to moral issues, where multiple viewpoints are considered and respected.

5. Facilitates Cross-Cultural Dialogue

Cultural relativism provides a framework for meaningful cross-cultural dialogue. By approaching cultural differences with an open mind and a willingness to understand, individuals can engage in more productive and respectful conversations. This dialogue can lead to greater mutual respect, cooperation, and the sharing of knowledge and ideas across cultural boundaries, contributing to a more interconnected and peaceful world.

6. Enhances Cultural Sensitivity In International Relations

In the realm of international relations, cultural relativism can enhance cultural sensitivity and diplomacy. By understanding and respecting the cultural values and norms of other nations, diplomats and international organizations can navigate complex global issues more effectively. This cultural sensitivity can lead to more successful negotiations, conflict resolution, and the development of policies that are more inclusive and considerate of diverse cultural perspectives.

7. Promotes Social Cohesion In Multicultural Societies

In multicultural societies, cultural relativism can promote social cohesion by fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding among different cultural groups. By acknowledging and valuing the diverse cultural identities within a society, cultural relativism helps to build a sense of belonging and inclusivity. This can reduce social tensions and create a more harmonious and integrated community.

8. Challenges Cultural Imperialism

Cultural imperialism occurs when a dominant culture imposes its values, beliefs, and practices on other cultures, often leading to the erosion of indigenous cultures. Cultural relativism challenges this by advocating for the respect and preservation of all cultures, regardless of their power or influence. By promoting the idea that all cultures have intrinsic value, cultural relativism helps to resist the homogenization of global cultures and supports cultural diversity.

9. Encourages Personal Growth And Broadens Perspectives

Engaging with cultural relativism encourages individuals to question their own cultural assumptions and biases, leading to personal growth and broader perspectives. By exploring and understanding different cultural practices and beliefs, individuals can develop greater empathy, open-mindedness, and intellectual humility. This process of self-reflection and learning can lead to more informed and thoughtful perspectives on cultural and ethical issues.

10. Facilitates Anthropological Research

Cultural relativism is a foundational principle in anthropology, where researchers seek to understand cultures from an insider’s perspective without imposing their own cultural biases. This approach allows anthropologists to gain deeper insights into the complexities of different societies and to produce more accurate and respectful representations of the cultures they study. By applying cultural relativism, anthropologists can contribute to a richer and more diverse understanding of humanity.

11. Promotes Global Citizenship

Cultural relativism promotes the idea of global citizenship by encouraging individuals to see themselves as part of a larger, interconnected world. By recognizing the value of all cultures and fostering an appreciation for diversity, cultural relativism helps to cultivate a sense of responsibility and solidarity with people from different cultural backgrounds. This global perspective can inspire individuals to work towards a more just, equitable, and peaceful world.

Cons Of Cultural Relativism

1. challenges to universal human rights.

One of the most significant criticisms of cultural relativism is its potential conflict with universal human rights. While cultural relativism advocates for the respect and understanding of different cultural practices, some practices may violate internationally recognized human rights standards. For example, practices such as female genital mutilation or child marriage may be culturally accepted in certain societies but are widely condemned by human rights organizations. This raises ethical questions about the limits of tolerance and whether certain cultural practices should be challenged or reformed.

2. Potential For Moral Relativism

Cultural relativism can lead to moral relativism, the idea that there are no absolute moral standards and that morality is entirely subjective. This perspective can make it difficult to critique harmful practices or behaviors within a culture, as it suggests that all moral judgments are equally valid. This can lead to a reluctance to address injustices or abuses within a culture, as outsiders may feel that they have no right to impose their moral values on others.

3. Difficulty In Addressing Cultural Conflicts

Cultural relativism can complicate efforts to address cultural conflicts, particularly in cases where different cultural groups have conflicting values or practices. For example, in multicultural societies, tensions may arise when cultural practices that are acceptable within one group are perceived as harmful or offensive by others. Cultural relativism may make it challenging to find common ground or to develop policies that are fair and respectful to all parties involved.

4. Risk Of Perpetuating Harmful Practices

While cultural relativism promotes the respect and understanding of different cultural practices, it also risks perpetuating harmful practices that may be detrimental to individuals or groups within a culture. By emphasizing the importance of cultural context, cultural relativism may inadvertently justify practices that violate individual rights or well-being. This can lead to a situation where harmful practices are tolerated or even encouraged, rather than challenged or reformed.

5. Undermines Efforts To Promote Social Justice

Cultural relativism can undermine efforts to promote social justice, particularly in cases where cultural practices or beliefs contribute to inequality, discrimination, or oppression. For example, cultural norms that reinforce gender roles or social hierarchies may be difficult to challenge under a culturally relativist framework. This can hinder progress towards achieving greater equality and social justice, as it may prevent critical examination and reform of unjust cultural practices.

6. Complicates Legal And Ethical Decision-Making

In legal and ethical decision-making, cultural relativism can create challenges when trying to balance respect for cultural diversity with the need to uphold universal standards of justice and fairness. For example, in cases involving cultural defenses, such as when a defendant claims that their actions were culturally justified, courts may struggle to determine the appropriate balance between cultural respect and legal accountability. This can lead to inconsistencies in legal outcomes and difficulties in enforcing the rule of law.

7. May Reinforce Cultural Boundaries

While cultural relativism encourages the appreciation of cultural diversity, it may also reinforce cultural boundaries and contribute to cultural isolation. By emphasizing the distinctiveness of different cultures, cultural relativism may discourage cross-cultural integration and interaction, leading to a fragmented society where cultural groups remain separate and insulated from one another. This can limit opportunities for intercultural exchange and understanding.

8. Challenges To Cultural Integration

In multicultural societies, cultural relativism can present challenges to cultural integration, particularly when different cultural groups have conflicting values or practices. For example, immigrants or minority groups may struggle to integrate into the broader society if their cultural practices are significantly different from those of the dominant culture. Cultural relativism may make it difficult to find a balance between respecting cultural diversity and promoting social cohesion and integration.

9. Potential For Misinterpretation And Misuse

Cultural relativism can be misinterpreted or misused to justify unethical or harmful practices. For example, individuals or groups may invoke cultural relativism to defend actions that violate human rights or ethical norms, arguing that such practices should be respected as part of their cultural tradition. This can lead to a situation where cultural relativism is used to shield harmful behaviors from criticism or reform, undermining efforts to promote justice and human dignity.

Cultural relativism is a complex and multifaceted concept that offers both significant benefits and potential challenges. On the one hand, it promotes tolerance, understanding, and respect for cultural diversity, which are essential in an increasingly interconnected and globalized world. Cultural relativism helps reduce ethnocentrism, supports the preservation of cultural heritage, and encourages meaningful cross-cultural dialogue. It also plays a crucial role in anthropological research and contributes to the development of ethical pluralism and global citizenship.

However, cultural relativism also raises important ethical questions, particularly when cultural practices conflict with universal human rights. The potential for moral relativism, the perpetuation of harmful practices, and challenges to social justice are critical concerns that must be addressed. Additionally, cultural relativism can complicate legal and ethical decision-making, reinforce cultural boundaries, and present obstacles to cultural integration and social cohesion.

Ultimately, the key to navigating the pros and cons of cultural relativism lies in finding a balance between respecting cultural diversity and upholding universal principles of human dignity, justice, and equality. By approaching cultural differences with an open mind and a commitment to ethical responsibility, individuals and societies can foster a more inclusive and harmonious world while addressing the challenges that cultural relativism presents.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Cultural Relativism

Looking for advantages and disadvantages of Cultural Relativism?

We have collected some solid points that will help you understand the pros and cons of Cultural Relativism in detail.

But first, let’s understand the topic:

What is Cultural Relativism?

Cultural relativism is the idea that a person’s beliefs and activities should be understood based on their own culture, not judged against other cultures. It means thinking that no culture is better or worse than another.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Cultural Relativism

The following are the advantages and disadvantages of Cultural Relativism:

Advantages of Cultural Relativism

• Promotes understanding of diversity – Cultural Relativism helps in promoting a better understanding of various cultures, leading to appreciation of diversity.
• Encourages open-mindedness – It encourages open-mindedness by allowing people to see the world from different cultural perspectives.
• Reduces cultural bias – By considering all cultures as equally valid, it helps in reducing cultural bias and prejudice.
• Enhances global cooperation – It aids in enhancing global cooperation as it fosters mutual respect and understanding among different cultures.
• Respects individual cultural practices – It respects individual cultural practices, acknowledging that no culture is superior or inferior, fostering a sense of equality.

Also check:

• Essay on Cultural Relativism

Disadvantages of Cultural Relativism

• Promotes moral ambiguity – Cultural relativism can lead to confusion about what’s right and wrong, as it suggests all cultural practices are equally valid.
• Ignores human rights issues – It can also overlook major human rights issues by justifying harmful actions as part of a culture’s norms.
• Overlooks harmful traditions – Certain harmful traditions, like child marriages or female genital mutilation, can be ignored under the guise of cultural respect.
• Encourages cultural superiority – This concept can fuel the idea of cultural superiority, as it can lead to the belief that one’s own culture is the best and should not change.
• Hinders societal progress – It can also slow down societal progress, as it discourages adopting beneficial practices from other cultures.
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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Cultural Relativism

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More about Advantages And Disadvantages Of Cultural Relativism

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Pros and Cons of Cultural Relativism

Cultural relativism offers both considerable advantages and notable drawbacks. It encourages understanding and tolerance by appreciating diverse cultural practices, nurturing empathy and intercultural dialogue. Nevertheless, it can also lead to moral paralysis by justifying harmful traditions, thereby creating ethical dilemmas regarding human rights. This concept risks cultural determinism, potentially hindering personal growth and critical analysis. In addition, while cultural relativism encourages respect for diversity, it might also enable unacceptable practices to persist unchecked. Balancing cultural appreciation with universal rights is essential for societal progress. Exploring these nuances further reveals the complexities that underpin cultural relativism's impact.

Table of Contents

Main Points

• Cultural relativism promotes understanding and tolerance of diverse cultural practices, fostering empathy and engagement among different populations.
• It challenges ethnocentrism, enhancing awareness of how context shapes behaviors and beliefs across cultures.
• However, it can lead to moral paralysis, justifying harmful practices and complicating human rights advocacy.
• Cultural relativism risks undermining universal human rights standards, creating moral ambiguity regarding justice and equality.
• In a globalized world, it encourages acceptance of cultural diversity but may also lead to cultural homogenization and loss of local identities.

Definition of Cultural Relativism

Cultural relativism is a concept in anthropology and ethics that posits that a person's beliefs, values , and practices should be understood based on that individual's cultural context rather than judged against the criteria of another culture.

This perspective emphasizes the importance of viewing cultural phenomena through the lens of the society in which they occur, recognizing that customs and social norms are often deeply ingrained in historical and social contexts.

Similar to how Linden trees contribute to biodiversity , cultural relativism acknowledges the richness and complexity of different cultural practices .

The principle of cultural relativism challenges ethnocentrism , the tendency to evaluate other cultures according to the standards of one's own.

By advocating for an understanding that appreciates the diversity of cultural practices, cultural relativism encourages open-mindedness and tolerance .

It asserts that no single culture holds a monopoly on truth or morality, and that ethical systems are fundamentally tied to cultural circumstances.

While cultural relativism seeks to promote respect for cultural diversity, it also raises questions about the limits of tolerance, particularly in cases where cultural practices may conflict with universal human rights .

Understanding cultural relativism is essential for engaging in meaningful cross-cultural dialogue and for addressing complex ethical dilemmas in an increasingly globalized world.

Advantages of Cultural Relativism

How does cultural relativism advance our understanding of diverse societies? Cultural relativism encourages an appreciation for the complexities and nuances of different cultural practices, beliefs, and values. By promoting the idea that no culture is superior to another, it nurtures an environment of respect and tolerance , allowing individuals to engage more meaningfully with diverse populations.

This perspective develops empathy , enabling individuals to see the world through the lens of others, which can lead to enriched interpersonal relationships and improved communication across cultural divides. Additionally, much like the flexibility in operations seen in charter schools, cultural relativism allows for a more flexible approach to understanding different societal norms and practices, recognizing the importance of context and individual experiences accountability measures .

Moreover, cultural relativism challenges ethnocentric views , which often distort our understanding of other societies. By recognizing that practices and beliefs are shaped by historical, social, and environmental contexts, we can better grasp the rationale behind behaviors that may initially seem foreign or unexplainable.

This understanding can promote more effective intercultural dialogue , nurturing collaboration and mutual respect in an increasingly globalized world.

Ultimately, embracing cultural relativism boosts our capacity for critical thinking about our own cultural norms, prompting self-reflection and growth. In doing so, it propels individuals towards a more inclusive and harmonious coexistence, acknowledging the rich mosaic of human experience across the globe.

Disadvantages of Cultural Relativism

The complexities of cultural relativism present considerable challenges that can complicate moral judgment and ethical reasoning. One notable disadvantage is the potential for moral paralysis , where individuals or societies refrain from making ethical decisions due to the belief that no single cultural standard holds superiority over another. This can hinder progress in addressing harmful practices , such as discrimination or violence, under the guise of respecting cultural norms.

Additionally, systemic inequalities perpetuated can emerge as cultural relativism allows certain groups to justify their harmful practices based on tradition.

Furthermore, cultural relativism can lead to the justification of practices that may be considered unethical or harmful by universal standards. For example, practices such as female genital mutilation or child marriage might be defended as cultural traditions, creating a moral dilemma for those who advocate for human rights. This reliance on cultural context may also encourage an environment of cultural determinism , where individuals feel constrained by their cultural background, potentially stifling personal growth and critical thinking.

Moreover, cultural relativism may inadvertently encourage cultural isolationism , undermining the possibility of cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. By emphasizing differences rather than shared values, it can create barriers to cooperation and mutual respect in an increasingly interconnected world.

Cultural Relativism and Human Rights

Steering through the intersection of cultural relativism and human rights can be fraught with tension, as differing cultural norms often clash with universal human rights principles.

Cultural relativism posits that beliefs, values, and practices should be understood based on their cultural context, which can lead to notable debates about the applicability of human rights standards across diverse societies.

Proponents argue that cultural relativism encourages tolerance and appreciation for diversity, while critics contend that it can excuse human rights violations.

This dilemma raises several important considerations:

• Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding local customs can cultivate better communication and cooperation.
• Universal Standards: Advocating for consistent human rights can prevent abuses masked as cultural practices.
• Empowerment vs. Control: Cultural relativism can enable marginalized groups, yet may also reinforce oppressive traditions.
• Legal Frameworks: International human rights laws often face challenges in enforcement due to cultural objections.

Navigating these complexities requires a balanced approach that respects cultural diversity while upholding fundamental human rights, ensuring that neither is compromised in the pursuit of justice and equality.

Impact on Globalization and Society

Cultural relativism's influence on globalization and society is substantial, shaping interactions among diverse cultures in an increasingly interconnected world. As societies engage with one another through trade, migration, and technology, cultural relativism encourages acceptance and understanding of varied practices and beliefs. This perspective nurtures dialogue and collaboration, allowing for a richer exchange of ideas and values.

However, the impact of cultural relativism on globalization can also pose challenges. While it encourages tolerance, it may lead to the uncritical acceptance of practices that conflict with universal human rights . For instance, acknowledging cultural differences might inhibit the pursuit of social justice for marginalized groups.

Additionally, as global entities operate across cultural boundaries, the risk of cultural homogenization arises, potentially undermining local identities and traditions.

In traversing this complex environment, it is vital for global actors to balance respect for cultural diversity with the encouragement of fundamental human rights . By nurturing an atmosphere that values both cultural specificity and universal principles, society can harness the benefits of globalization while ensuring that the dignity and rights of individuals are upheld.

This balance will eventually contribute to a more just and equitable global community.

Common Questions

How does cultural relativism affect personal beliefs and values.

Cultural relativism influences personal beliefs and values by encouraging individuals to appreciate diverse viewpoints, nurturing empathy and understanding. It challenges ethnocentrism, prompting reflection on one's own cultural norms and potentially leading to more inclusive worldviews.

Can Cultural Relativism Promote Tolerance Among Different Societies?

Cultural relativism can indeed encourage tolerance among different societies by promoting mutual respect and understanding. It cultivates an appreciation for diverse viewpoints, reducing ethnocentrism and facilitating dialogue that helps bridge cultural divides and improve social cohesion.

What Are Common Misconceptions About Cultural Relativism?

Common misconceptions about cultural relativism include the belief that it endorses all cultural practices unconditionally, equates all cultures as morally equal, and negates the existence of universal human rights, leading to misunderstandings regarding its intended purpose and application.

How Does Cultural Relativism Relate to Ethical Decision-Making?

Cultural relativism considerably influences ethical decision-making by emphasizing the importance of contextual understanding in moral judgments, encouraging individuals to appreciate diverse viewpoints and practices, thereby promoting tolerance and reducing ethnocentric biases in evaluating ethical standards.

Are There Historical Examples of Cultural Relativism in Action?

Historical examples of cultural relativism include colonial policies that respected indigenous practices, such as the British administration's adjustment to local customs in India, illustrating the complexities and variances in ethical considerations across different cultural contexts.

Cultural relativism presents a complex framework for understanding diverse cultural practices and beliefs. While it cultivates tolerance and appreciation of cultural diversity, it also raises challenges concerning the universality of human rights and ethical standards . Additionally, its consequences on globalization prompt critical discussions about cultural exchange and adjustment. Eventually, a balanced approach that acknowledges the merits and limitations of cultural relativism may encourage greater understanding and respect in an increasingly interconnected world.

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Cultural Relativism, Its Strengths and Weaknesses

Introduction, examples of arguments for cultural relativism, strengths and weaknesses of cultural relativism.

Culture is a difficult word to define, however it is the origin of evaluation of different matters of the act. The aim of this essay is to review briefly, yet comprehensively, the core of cultural relativism, some arguments, point of strength and weaknesses.

Culture as a term is difficult to define or describe. Some traditional concepts look at culture as the normal values and ideas that influence the perception of a group of people to their surrounding world (Nduwimana, and El Obaid, 2004). In this frame, culture affects human behavior to a great extent. Human culture is different from human acts, which are positive steps taken to achieve an objective. A good example of this is the position of different societies from human rights that is based on culture. The generalized society’s concept of human rights accordingly implies acts that express the society’s notion about human rights (Nduwimana, and El Obaid, 2004).

What is cultural relativism?

The theory of cultural relativism materializes the statement of the right to be different (Nduwimana, and El Obaid, 2004). Basically, it is a theory of the nature of ethics that attempts to answer questions like what are morals, where do they come from, and how one can judge an act being right or wrong? The core of thinking in cultural relativism is to differentiate between the matters of the act (as A person, hits another B), and evaluation (was it right or wrong). In culture relativism, the answer to evaluation is implied by the society’s traditions and customs (culture). Thus the answer is more than just right or wrong. Therefore, a cultural relativist believes that different cultures associate various moral codes for the evaluation of matters of the act rather than providing pure descriptive terms. This moral code (normative claim) is not all that culture associates to matters of the act. Thus, from a cultural relativism standpoint, the answer to the previous example depends on whether A and B belong to the same culture or not (Cutler, 2006).

In cultural relativism, different societies have their own differing moral codes, which decide what is right and what is wrong. Further; there is no objective measure to judge which society’s code is better. In addition, there is no universal truth (a truth that sustains for all people at all times) (Cutler, 2006).

The genetic argument is do individuals learn or gain concepts of morality or is it genetically determined? Second, is cultural relativism the key to understanding each other and solving the conflicts resulting from intercultural interaction? As societies accept cultural relativism, individuals may begin to look critically at their culturally imposed judgment on others (cosmopolitanism argument) (Cutler, 2006).

Cultural relativism may be a better path to understand the subjective meanings of beliefs and the role they play in taking acts and formulation of the social life of a group of people. However, it does not explain where or how these beliefs stem from. Further, if all beliefs are valid, then there is no true or false, nor there is no fixed human nature (Fog, 2003). As the moral agent is culturally developed, thus moral self-identity, moral characters, good values to acquire, and immoral habits to avoid should vary as wide as cultures vary. Based on cultural relativism theory agreed-upon physical brutal actions (as torture) can not be treated as action without background meaning stemming from culture. However; on the other hand, human action should be flat and lacking significance when a society loses its cultural part of the picture (Cere, 2005). Following the way of thinking of cultural relativism, then issues like human rights and women’s rights are not universal and are not matters of conflict (Clavier, n.d.).

It is important to understand how much cultural relativism can influence socio-economic relations. It is of equal importance to discuss major world problems as the wars carried out since 09/11 by countries devoted to saving oppressed lost nations in the lights of cultural relativism. The author believes that there is no real conflict between cultural relativism and universality. It is true that human rights have no meaning unless they are universal, however, human rights cannot be universal unless there is social background and harbor to develop and protect. If such issues as human rights are to be universal, then there should be universality in access to civil, social, economic, cultural and political rights.

Cere, D. (2005). Modern Moral Culture . Web.

Clavier, S., M. (n.d.). Human Rights and the Debate Between Universalism & Cultural Relativism. Web.

Cutler, D. A. (2006). Cultural Relativism . Web.

Fog, A. (2003). The gap between cultural selection theory and sociology . 11 th . meeting of the International Society for the History, Philosophy and Social Studies of Biology, Vienna, Austria.

Nduwimana, F., and El Obaid, A., E. (2004). Universalism and Cultural Relativism . Web.

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James Rachels’ The Challenge of Cultural Relativism Essay

The article “The Challenge of Cultural Relativism” by Rachels explores the issue of ethics. According to the article, moral philosophy focuses on the issues that can steer an acceptable life. The term “cultural relativism” describes the moral codes embraced by different societal groups. Moral ethics differ significantly from one culture to another. The philosopher uses several characteristics to describe cultural relativism.

For instance, different communities have dissimilar moral codes. Cultural relativism also explains why there is no “truth” in ethics and morality. This is the case because “wrong” and “right” are matters of human opinion. Such opinions will definitely change from one region to another. Rachels also explains why there is no formula for judging people’s societal codes.

The first observation from Rachels’ article is that human beings tend to appreciate the differences existing between cultural groups. Every culture also has its unique moral codes. Many people strongly believe that this approach is critical towards understanding morality. However, James Rachels believes that moral relativism has numerous problems. That being the case, Rachels argues that many cultures tend to have unique opinions about different ethical issues. Such opinions vary from one society to another. He describes how different cultures dispose the dead.

The important thing is embracing the opinions supported by different cultures. However, the philosopher believes that human beings should use universal standards to understand whether specific actions are wrong or right. This argument examines why cultural relativism is inapplicable in the society today. This is true because moral relativism can make it impossible for a given culture to improve its moral values. According to Rachels, the idea of cultural relativism fails to follow the anticipated premises. For instance, the philosopher explains why universal morality is attainable and possible. This is true despite the fact that some ethical differences exist in various societies. Human beings should explore these shortcomings in order to deal with every immoral practice in their societies.

According to Rachels, cultural relativism fails to support the existence of universal moral standards. The philosopher rejects cultural relativism because it discourages individuals from criticizing the practices and beliefs of different societies. Rachels uses several arguments to explain why cultural relativism is unacceptable. The philosopher explains how cultural relativism fails to criticize malpractices such as discrimination and slavery.

Cultural relativism describes how individuals can determine what is bad or good by examining the ethical standards of a given society. The philosopher criticizes the concept of moral relativism because it makes moral progress impossible. Rachels believes that fundamental values cannot differ significantly from one society to another. These weaknesses of cultural relativism encourage human beings to formulate universal laws that can result in happiness.

The best argument for cultural relativism is that it has many problems. To begin with, the cultural practices of a given society are not different from those of other communities. Rachels believes that there are slight differences between cultures. This situation explains why a universal ethical practice can be critical towards governing all human beings. This approach will ensure there is moral progress in the world.

It is agreeable that cultural relativism is a powerful concept that analyzes the existence of different cultures. However, cultural relativism is incomplete because it ignores the similarities existing between societies. For instance, murder is an immoral action in every society across the globe. This discussion explains why the world should embrace Rachels’ arguments in order to produce better universal moral standards.

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