Question

arguments against cultural relativism​

Answer 1

Different cultures believe different things. One doesn’t need to be an anthropologist to see that the morality, ritual, and religion vary more and more the further you travel, no matter what direction. In fact, these differences are what define these groups of people. And not only are these values what organize the lives of… well… everyone, but they are also what lay the meaning behind those lives – whether political, cultural or religious in origin.

So what do we do with this fact? What should we conclude? How should we treat this difference?

Easy off the bat answer: Cultural Relativism. Though originally the phrase was coined for a different use, it’s come to signify the idea that every culture’s moral beliefs and rituals are no more true or false, better or worse than anyone else’s. What is right or wrong is whatever that culture says is right or wrong. Nothing more. And because of this what we need is tolerance, acceptance of the equal value of others’ beliefs, and humility in the fact different peoples believe different things.

Now I’m all for tolerance and admitting my passionately held values could easily be incorrect. But I just cannot see how any of those conclusions can lead to, or even can co-exist with, Cultural Relativism.

Thanks for the question.

Hope it helps you.