Cultural Relativism Flashcards
What is cultural relativism?
Cultural relativism is the idea that moral beliefs and practices vary across cultures, and no universal standard exists to judge them as right or wrong.
How does James Rachels critique cultural relativism?
Rachels argues that cultural relativism is flawed because it assumes all moral beliefs are equally valid, even if they promote harm or injustice. He believes this prevents us from making meaningful moral judgments.
What is the Cultural Differences Argument?
The argument states that because different cultures have different moral codes, there is no objective moral truth—morality is merely based on cultural perspective.
How does Rachels refute the Cultural Differences Argument?
He points out that just because cultures disagree on moral issues does not mean there is no objective truth—disagreement does not equal relativism.
Consequences of cultural relativism according to Rachel:
- No standard by which you can judge others (we are sometimes right to judge other cultures which suggests there is a standard)
- Discover what is right/ wrong by consulting our culture (granted, not how this works because no one ACTUALLY asks their cultures what to do)
- No way to make progress
What example does Rachels use to illustrate moral commonalities across cultures?
He argues that some values, like truth-telling and prohibiting murder, are necessary for any society to function and are therefore universal.
Does Rachels completely reject cultural influence on morality?
No, he acknowledges that culture shapes moral beliefs, but he argues that some moral principles are universal and not merely cultural constructs.
What alternative to cultural relativism does Rachels suggest?
He advocates for objective moral truths—some moral principles are correct regardless of cultural beliefs.
What is the key takeaway from Rachels’ critique of cultural relativism?
While cultures influence moral beliefs, not all morality is relative—some ethical truths exist universally, and cultural relativism cannot account for moral progress or reform.
