Question One
Ideally, cultural relativism is a philosophical perspective, which suggests that it is difficult to make judgements or assessments against other cultures.
I think cultural relativism promotes ethical action because it advises individuals against passing judgement against other cultures, thereby promoting cultural cooperation and appreciation (Cahoone 34).
Furthermore, it helps individuals to accept as well as be tolerant towards other cultures that they do not understand. As a result, it promotes cultural tolerance and acceptance, which is an important ethical action.
Cultural relativism promotes cultural understanding, which helps individuals to respect each other’s culture (Cahoone 38).
Question Two
On the other hand, cultural relativism is not a sound theory because it does not promote ethical action.
It is widely biased to suggest that people should not pass judgement against other cultures. In the long run, some people feel hostile because even though they may disagree with a particular cultural belief or practice, there is seemingly nothing they can do to address the situation (Cahoone 44).
It promotes the perception that some people are perfect, yet most people are not.
Ideally, cultural relativism allows people to set their own ethical codes of conduct; therefore, it leaves some room for unethical and immoral practices in the society. Actions such as murder, rape, and child abuse would become legally viable became an individual’s culture or morality defined them as good (Cahoone 39).
It disproves the idea of moral progress. Rather that questioning and seeking to correct some unethical practices, it suggests that people should be allowed to engage in the actions and activities that are acceptable within their cultural contexts (Cahoone 41).
Question Three
What are some of the basic principles of cultural relativism?
What are some of the challenges associated with cultural relativism?
Works Cited
Cahoone, Lawrence. Cultural Revolutions: Reason versus Culture in Philosophy, Politics, and Jihad. Pennsylvania: Penn State University Press, 2010. Print.
