Lecture on Ethical Relativism

Introduction

• Discussion on ethical relativism and its implications on what is considered right and wrong.
• Importance of culture in shaping humanity and community values.

Definition of Culture

• Burke (2008): Culture includes knowledge, beliefs, arts, morals, laws, customs, and habits acquired by man as a member of society.
• Schaeffer (2013): Culture is socially transmitted customs, knowledge, material objects, and behaviors.

Functions of Culture

1. Provides Identity: Distinct cultural identities are formed by traditions and beliefs.
   • Example: Differences in culture among regions in the Philippines and other countries like Singapore.
2. Mirrors the Law: Laws are derived from socially acceptable norms.
   • Example: Variation in laws across US states and preservation of heritage sites in the Philippines.
3. Unifies People: Language and cultural practices unify members of a society.
   • Example: Recognition of accents or language in a foreign land.
4. Influences Morality: Cultural norms define what is morally right or wrong.
   • Example: Different moral standards across cultures.

Concept of Cultural Relativism

• Holmes (2007): Moral beliefs and practices vary and depend on human needs and social conditions.
• Premise that there is no universal right or wrong applicable to all cultures.
• Kellenberger (2011): Cultural relativism as a celebration of cultural diversity.

Historical Role of Cultural Relativism

• Encourages cross-cultural understanding and promotes human freedom.

Forms of Ethical Relativism

1. Personal/Individual: Ethical judgments based on individual beliefs, with no objective standard.
2. Social/Cultural: Moral judgments based on societal or cultural views, with no culture deemed superior.

Reasons for Supporting Ethical Relativism

1. Diversity of Moral Values: Different cultures have different moral standards.
2. Moral Uncertainty: Difficulty in defining what is universally right or wrong.
3. Situational Differences: Cultural context influences perceptions of morality.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Cultural Relativism

Strengths

• Promotes cultural understanding and tolerance.
• Protects cultural diversity.
• Encourages multicultural appreciation.

Weaknesses

• Lack of universal moral standards.
• Can justify unethical practices under cultural guise.
• May overlook human rights concerns.

Cultural Tolerance and Sensitivity

• Encourages preservation of cultural diversity.
• Importance of recognizing universal human rights.
• Need for cultural sensitivity in criticism.
• Avoid generalizing negative stereotypes based on cultural practices.

Conclusion

• Summary of the relationship between culture and moral understanding.
• Encouragement to appreciate cultural differences while being aware of universal ethical standards.