Cultural Relativism Flashcard

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What is Cultural Relativism?

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Cultural Relativism is the belief that a person's beliefs and activities should be understood based on that person's own culture, rather than be judged against the criteria of another culture.

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What is the main argument against Cultural Relativism?

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Cultural Relativism is based on the idea that all cultures have equally correct beliefs.

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What does the term 'arbitrarily' mean in the context of Cultural Relativism?

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In this context, 'arbitrarily' refers to decisions or beliefs that are made without any logical reasoning or consistent principles.

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How does the author view the relationship between tolerance and Cultural Relativism?

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The author argues that tolerance is a universal value that transcends cultural differences.

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What are collectivist cultures?

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Collectivist cultures prioritize the group over the individual, emphasizing community, family, and social harmony.

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What are individualist cultures?

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Individualist cultures emphasize personal freedom, individual rights, and self-reliance.

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Why is Cultural Relativism problematic for social reform?

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Cultural Relativism ignores the universal values that social reformers are fighting for.

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What is moral relativism?

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Moral relativism is the idea that moral judgments are not absolute but are shaped by cultural, social, or personal circumstances.

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What is the significance of understanding different moral codes in various cultures?

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Understanding different moral codes helps in recognizing that moral beliefs can vary significantly across cultures, which is essential for effective communication and social interaction.

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What is the role of social reformers in relation to Cultural Relativism?

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Social reformers challenge existing norms and advocate for changes that may conflict with cultural practices, which can be complicated by Cultural Relativism.