Podcast
Questions and Answers
What underlying assumption is challenged by the argument regarding the shape of the Earth?
What underlying assumption is challenged by the argument regarding the shape of the Earth?
- Objective truths exist independently of cultural perspectives. (correct)
- Different societies value truth equally.
- Cultural beliefs are always correct.
- Opinions regarding geography are universally shared.
Why do the Eskimos dispose of infant girls more readily than boys according to the passage?
Why do the Eskimos dispose of infant girls more readily than boys according to the passage?
- Cultural beliefs dictate preference for males.
- Girls are less valued in all societies.
- Male infants are harder to care for in harsh environments.
- Males have a greater role in survival as providers. (correct)
What is a significant factor that influences the decisions of Eskimo families regarding infant survival?
What is a significant factor that influences the decisions of Eskimo families regarding infant survival?
- Cultural practices that favor survival of boys.
- Beliefs about the value of life.
- An emphasis on population growth in harsh climates.
- Environmental conditions and resources. (correct)
How does cultural relativism misinterpret the situation of the Eskimos?
How does cultural relativism misinterpret the situation of the Eskimos?
What does the phrase 'life is hard, and the margin of safety small' imply about the Eskimos' challenges?
What does the phrase 'life is hard, and the margin of safety small' imply about the Eskimos' challenges?
What distinguishes moral law from mere social convention?
What distinguishes moral law from mere social convention?
How does cultural relativism define an action as ethical?
How does cultural relativism define an action as ethical?
Which of the following best describes the theory of moral subjectivism?
Which of the following best describes the theory of moral subjectivism?
What is a consequence of opting to go against societal norms according to moral relativism?
What is a consequence of opting to go against societal norms according to moral relativism?
In the context of social conditioning theory, when someone says an action 'ought' to be done, they are primarily reflecting which of the following?
In the context of social conditioning theory, when someone says an action 'ought' to be done, they are primarily reflecting which of the following?
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Study Notes
Moral Standards and Cultural Relativism
- There exists an objective moral truth independent of societal beliefs and opinions.
- Moral law is distinct from social conventions and is not simply a product of societal approval.
- Moral subjectivism aligns closely with relativist theories, where moral judgments vary based on culture.
- Cultural relativism posits that ethical standards are defined by societal norms, deeming acts ethical in some cultures while seen as immoral in others.
The Impact of Environment on Moral Values
- Society’s beliefs can influence moral decisions, but individuals may feel a moral obligation to act contrary to societal norms.
- Individuals who defy societal norms are sometimes viewed as reformers or moral examples.
Arguments Against Cultural Relativism
- Cultural relativism can lead to flawed conclusions based on perceived societal truths.
- Case example: Eskimos' practice of infanticide is not due to lack of love for children but rather harsh environmental survival pressures.
- Just because societies disagree on moral issues doesn’t invalidate the existence of objective truths.
Dangers of Cultural Relativism
- Cultural relativism prevents criticism of grievous practices like slavery and anti-Semitism by suggesting all societal behaviors are justified within their cultural context.
- Societal practices cannot be deemed wrong under cultural relativism.
Differences in Eastern and Western Ethics
- Eastern ethics emphasize respect and social protocol, while Western ethics focus on rationality and individual truth.
Stages of Moral Development by Lawrence Kohlberg
- Kohlberg's theory builds upon Piaget’s principles, analyzing moral development through storytelling.
Stages of Moral Reasoning
- Stage 1: Punishment-avoidance and obedience – Decisions based on self-interest, prioritizing avoidance of punishment.
- Stage 2: Exchange of Favors – Recognition of mutual needs, leading to a transactional view of morality.
- Stage 3: Interpersonal relationships – Morality as conformity to societal expectations and maintaining good relationships.
- Stage 4: Law and order thinking – Majority conform to societal laws and understand the importance of social order.
- Stage 5: Social contract – Recognizes the need for rules to serve the greater good and can advocate for changing unjust laws.
- Stage 6: Universal ethical principles – A hypothetical ideal where moral decisions are guided by abstract ethical principles transcending cultural norms.
Characteristics of Moral Reasoning
- Individuals often justify wrongful actions by claiming societal endorsement, indicating moral reasoning tied to social acceptance.
- Individuals in later stages recognize duties to uphold laws valuable to society.
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