Distinguish between cultural relativism and subjective relativism and assess both as moral approaches including an estimate of whether there are actually absolute moral truths.
ANSWER
Cultural relativism and subjective relativism are two different moral approaches that differ in their emphasis on the role of culture and individual experience in determining morality.
Cultural relativism holds that morality is relative to the culture in which it is practiced. This means that there is no one set of moral truths that applies to everyone, and that what is considered right or wrong can vary from culture to culture. For example, in some cultures, polygamy is considered to be morally acceptable, while in other cultures, it is considered to be morally wrong.
Subjective relativism holds that morality is relative to the individual’s own subjective experience. This means that there are no objective moral truths, and that what is considered right or wrong depends on each individual’s own personal beliefs and values. For example, one person may believe that it is morally wrong to lie, while another person may believe that it is morally permissible to lie in certain circumstances.
Assessment of cultural relativism and subjective relativism as moral approaches
Cultural relativism and subjective relativism have both been criticized for being too relativistic. Critics argue that these approaches lead to moral nihilism, which is the belief that there are no moral truths. They also argue that these approaches can be used to justify harmful practices, such as child abuse and torture.
However, defenders of cultural relativism and subjective relativism argue that these approaches are more realistic and tolerant than other moral approaches. They argue that it is impossible to say definitively what is right or wrong for everyone, and that we should respect the different moral beliefs and values of different cultures and individuals.
Estimation of whether there are actually absolute moral truths
The question of whether there are actually absolute moral truths is a complex one that philosophers have been debating for centuries. There is no easy answer to this question, and there are strong arguments to be made on both sides.
Those who believe that there are absolute moral truths argue that there are some moral principles that are universally binding, regardless of culture or individual experience. For example, they might argue that it is always wrong to kill innocent people, or that it is always wrong to torture people.
Those who believe that there are no absolute moral truths argue that morality is always relative to the specific situation. They might argue that there are no clear-cut moral rules that can be applied to all situations, and that we must always make moral judgments on a case-by-case basis.
Conclusion
Cultural relativism and subjective relativism are two different moral approaches that have both been criticized and defended. There is no easy answer to the question of whether there are actually absolute moral truths.
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