Module 08: Culture Relativism (Part A) Flashcards
These are known as beliefs and practices (way of life) of a particular community or group of people.
Culture
This is known as the objective analysis or study of cultures. This underscores how different cultures have different rules or codes. They have their own moral or ethical principles, what are considered right or wrong.
Cultural Relativism
What is called to do in cultural relativism?
(1) One should not try to judge a culture by using the
norm and standards of another culture
(2) Calls for the understanding, toleration, respect,
acceptance of cultures
(3) Avoid prejudices, biases
This criticizes the idea that
moral principles are universal or absolute
Cultural Relativism
What does cultural relativism state about moral principles?
(1) What is right or wrong depends on the community where one lives
(2) There is no such thing as absolute right or wrong
(3) Moral principles are not uniform for everyone
According to him, not all things can be relative, like the moral
principles
James Rachels
Why did James Rachels say that not all things can be relative, like the moral principles
Acts such as lying, stealing, murder, gossiping, bullying, corruption, vandalism, etc. should be considered wrong, regardless of the community or culture
According to him, not all cultural practices, customs, are on
equal footing.
Rosado, Caleb, “Understanding
Cultural Relativism in a Multicultural World”
Why did Rosado Caleb state that not all cultural practices, customs, are on equal footing.
For example, scientific western methods of treating illnesses can be more effective than the traditional methods of some cultures
According to him, not all cultural practices, customs, are valid
Rosado Caleb
What are the conditions cultures, according to Rosado Caleb, to be not valid?
When human rights are already violated, when certain practices are go against human dignity or
cause physical harm to individuals.
