Question #2: what are two or three Consequences of Cultural Form of Ethical Relativism in Morals - Essay Example

Consequences of Cultural Form of Ethical Relativism in Morals There are a number of consequences of the cultural form of ethical relativism in morals. Cultural relativism argues that people should not judge other societies based on their culture. While this is a tolerant and diplomatic view of the world, it also has been argued to have consequences. One such consequence is that if individuals adopt a cultural relativist position than any action can be considered moral (‘Ethical Relativism’).

One considers the Nazi regime. This regime advanced a cultural position that the Jewish race was inferior and needed to be destroyed. Clearly, taking a culturally relativist position to this would have profound consequences. Another consequence is that in adopting a cultural relativist position the very nature of morals and ethics breaks down (‘Cultural Relativism’). In these regards, one considers that if nothing is wrong then everything is right; this would cause chaos throughout the world and possible genocide.

It’s clear that these positions are good reasons to reject the cultural relativist’s position regarding moral values. This is because while relativism is good through its tolerance of other societies, it some situations it is necessary to be intolerant. Oftentimes cultures have engaged in activity, such as genocide or oppression that is not simply intolerable in their culture, but poses a threat to humanity. It follows that adopting a cultural relativist position is not only ineffective, but also counter-productive to social progress.

ReferencesCultural relativism . (2011). Retrieved from http://www.allaboutphilosophy.org/cultural-relativism.htmEthical relativism . (2011). Retrieved from http://www.mesacc.edu/~yount/text/relativism.html