Ethical Relativism vs Moral Absolutism

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Questions and Answers

Which statement accurately contrasts ethical relativism and moral absolutism?

  • Ethical relativism applies to all situations, while moral absolutism depends on the circumstances.
  • Ethical relativism is concerned with individual rights, while moral absolutism focuses on cultural norms.
  • Ethical relativism is subjective and varies across cultures, while moral absolutism is universal and constant. (correct)
  • Ethical relativism establishes universal moral standards, while moral absolutism rejects objective morality.

How does ethical relativism view the concept of objective moral truth?

  • It integrates objective moral truth with cultural practices.
  • It acknowledges objective moral truth, which is determined by individual perspectives.
  • It recognizes objective moral truth, which is shaped by societal norms.
  • It rejects the existence of objective moral truth. (correct)

What is a key implication of ethical relativism regarding the justification of practices?

  • Practices are justified only if they adhere to a set of universal ethical principles.
  • Practices must respect individual autonomy to be considered ethical.
  • Practices are justified if they are accepted within a specific culture. (correct)
  • Practices can be universally justified if they lead to overall happiness.

How might ethical relativism impact the potential for moral progress?

<p>It can hinder moral progress by suggesting all moral codes are equally valid. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'cultural determination of ethics' within ethical relativism?

<p>Ethics are determined by what a society deems acceptable or unacceptable. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of ethical relativism, what role do societal norms play?

<p>Societal norms influence what is considered morally acceptable within a culture. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario exemplifies the application of ethical relativism?

<p>A country legalizes a practice because it aligns with their cultural values, even though it may be considered unethical elsewhere. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What conflict arises when different cultures with conflicting moral standards interact, according to ethical relativism?

<p>Moral inconsistency occurs, as each culture believes its standards are correct. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a strength of moral absolutism compared to ethical relativism?

<p>It provides a clear and consistent framework for moral judgments. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a society values communal harmony above individual expression, which ethical framework is likely in play?

<p>Ethical Relativism (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios aligns with ethical relativism?

<p>A country accepts female genital mutilation because it is a long-standing tradition. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way could moral absolutism be seen as inflexible?

<p>It insists on adherence to norms, regardless of context. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a society criminalizes speech that insults certain symbols, which idea is demonstrated?

<p>Cultural determination of ethics (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which moral issue would someone using the ethical relativism perspective struggle the most with?

<p>Establishing universal moral standards. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is in direct opposition to objective moral truth?

<p>Ethical relativism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is most closely associated with moral absolutism?

<p>Universality. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under ethical relativism, how are moral standards primarily formed?

<p>Through social, cultural, and individual perspectives. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If two societies have conflicting moral codes, what may result?

<p>Moral inconsistency. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to ethical relativism, how should one judge the morality of an action performed in a different culture?

<p>By evaluating societal context. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential challenge posed by ethical relativism?

<p>Justifying actions considered immoral elsewhere. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Ethical Relativism

Ethical view that morality depends on cultural factors, varying from society to society.

Moral Absolutism

The belief that certain moral principles are universally applicable, regardless of culture or circumstance.

Rejection of Universal Moral Standards

Denial of objective moral standards, implying right and wrong are subjective.

Cultural Determination of Ethics

Ethics are determined by cultural norms, dictating what is acceptable.

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Influence of Societal Norms

Ethics is influenced by societal norms and their context, shaped by collective beliefs.

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Prevention of Moral Progress

A moral code where all moral codes are equally valid.

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Moral Inconsistency

Conflicting sets of moral standards, creating contradiction.

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Study Notes

  • Ethical relativism's morality depends on cultural factors
  • Moral absolutism is applicable to all regardless of circumstances

Ethical Relativism

  • Ethical relativism is shaped by social, cultural, and individual perspectives of right and wrong
  • Ethical relativism rejects universal moral standards, denying the existence of objective morality
  • Ethics are culturally determined, dictating what is acceptable or unacceptable
  • Societal norms influence collective beliefs

Examples

  • Arranged marriages are the norm in some cultures, while others see them as a violation of individual autonomy
  • Dietary practices prohibit eating certain animals
  • Unethical practices are justified if they are culturally accepted
  • Moral progress is prevented because all moral codes are equally valid
  • Conflicting moral standards cause moral inconsistency

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