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Questions and Answers
What is the main idea of moral relativism?
What is an example of a cultural difference mentioned in the text?
What is the argument made by some anthropologists?
What is a criticism of moral relativism mentioned in the text?
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What is the view of extreme relativism?
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What is implied by the text about the acceptability of certain practices in different cultures?
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Study Notes
Moral Relativism
- Moral relativism is the view that what is right in one culture may be wrong in another, and there is no absolute truth or way to judge between the two.
- It suggests that morality is relative to cultural norms, and what is right in one location may be wrong in another.
Cultural Differences
- Examples of cultural differences include bullfighting in Spain, which is seen as a spectacle, but considered outrageous cruelty in many other countries.
- In Ancient Rome, it was acceptable to have gladiatorial combat to the death and own slaves, but these practices are now widely frowned upon.
Anthropological Relativism
- Some anthropologists argue that morality is different in different cultures, and it's ethnocentric to impose one's own values on others.
- They recognize that morality is relative to cultural circumstances and traditions.
Criticisms of Moral Relativism
- A relativist would have to accept that the Nazi treatment of Jews, homosexuals, and Gypsies as less than human was morally acceptable in Nazi Germany.
- This is a repugnant conclusion, and it's probably best to avoid moral relativism.
Extreme Relativism
- Some people argue that everything is relative, including truth, and that there is no objective truth.
- This view suggests that what is true at one time and place isn't true for everyone everywhere.
Problems with Extreme Relativism
- If truth is relative, then the theory of relativism itself would have to be relative, and couldn't be absolutely true.
- This creates a contradiction in the theory of extreme relativism.
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Description
Explore the concept of moral relativism, cultural differences, and criticisms of moral relativism. Learn about anthropological relativism and the implications of extreme relativism.
