Module 2: The Moral Agent

Lesson 1: Ethical and Cultural Relativism

 Introduction

What is ethical and cultural relativism? What are its

advantages and disadvantages in our society? Do we adapt
its concept or not? If we combine these terms (ethical and
cultural relativism), is it right to assert that ethics may
vary from one culture to another? Can we say that ethics is
relative or the same from one culture to another?
Learning Outcomes

During the learning engagement, you should be able to

demonstrate your understanding on ethical and cultural relativism,
 simulate the elements of culture, giving emphasis on the culture of
the place where you live in, and
make decisions on practices as to their being “good” or “bad.”
Activity: Group Brainstorming

Direction: Do what is asked in each of the following items:

Identify practices that are considered good or right in one culture
but not in another.
Talk about a particular controversial moral issue of today. Give
opinions.
Present your group’s output in class.
 Processing

 Ethical relativism generally, refers to a view or doctrine that ethical

values and beliefs (as to what is right/good and wrong/bad) are relative
to the time, place, persons, situations and societies that hold them. (See
Camp et al. 2015:4; Ardales 1987:97-98; Mackinnon 1998:12; Pojman
199:28; Thiroux 1995:95).
In short, ethical relativism is a theory that holds that there are no
universally valid moral principles; that all moral values are valid
relative to culture or individual choice. For an ethical relativist,
“whether an action is right or wrong depends on the moral
norms of society or the moral commitments of the individual,
and no absolute standard exists by which differing rules or
commitments can be judged” (Camp, Olen & Barry 2015:4).
Hence, there are no values that cut across cultural
boundaries and peoples that are not relative to the specific
place or context in which they are held. Morality
therefore depends on specific social or cultural
circumstances (traditions, customs, etc.). What is then
morally right or wrong may vary fundamentally from
person to person or culture to culture.
Without a doubt, ethical relativism poses a great
challenge to the very foundation of morality. Aside from
being a controversial view, it is also one of the most
difficult and complex problems or issues in ethics. It is, in
fact, “arguably the central problem in ethics, one to which
virtually all others eventually lead” (Holmes 1998:63).
“Ethical relativists, though, are neither skeptics
nor nihilists. They believe in moral right and
wrong. It is just that they contend that what is
basically right for an individual or group may be
wrong for another” (Holmes 1998:164; Timbreza
1993:18).
Relativism does not, however, try to tell us which acts and
practices are right and wrong. “It only says that no matter how
we answer that question, we must acknowledge that an act or
conduct may be both right and wrong at the same time—say,
right in one culture but wrong in another. To put it more simply,
differing moral views about the same action may be both right at
the same time” (Ellin 1995:35-36; Holmes 1998:16: Pojman
1999:28).
 Conclusion

 As we see, ethical relativism is not just a naïve and simple moral theory.
Its arguments and justifications are firmly rooted in a good number of
points. This probably explains its persistent and perennial appeal and
popularity to the contemporary mind, especially to the young, to the so-
called “millennials,” who have become too suspicious and even
impervious to the moral absolutes adhered to and preached zealously by
the older generation.
Admittedly, one “can understand the appeal of cultural
relativism... despite its shortcomings. It is an attractive theory
(for sure) because it is based on genuine insight: that many of the
practices and attitudes we find natural are only cultural products.
Keeping this thought in mind is important if we want to avoid
arrogance and be open to new ideas. These are indeed important
points [that should] not be taken lightly” (Rachels & Rachels
2015:32).
Indeed, ethical relativism looks formidable,
especially at first glance, but upon closer
examination, reveals that it too, contains a
number of complications and inconsistencies
(Rachels 2007:27).
But, in spite of its glaring and subtle flaws and shortcomings,
ethical relativism is not really refuted (as in totally and
categorically debunked and undermined). What the previous
presentation only accomplished, if at all, “is to show that ethical
relativism is not as reasonable or as sound as many of us might
have thought and believed” (Rachels 2007:27).
Of course, to be fair, ethical relativism does contain some
important and valuable truths. Truths which are difficult to
ignore. But definitely, not the whole truth. Thus, in the end, it is
clear that the reasonable thing to do is to take and seriously
consider the theory’s good points, and learn from, and be
cautious of its concomitant weaknesses.
Formation

Whether an action is right or wrong

depends on the moral norms of society...
Synthesis

This lesson focuses on the advantages of

ethical and cultural relativism and the
dangers of holding this viewpoint.
 Assessment

Group Brainstorming Output (See Activity)

Reflective Essay
What will happen to a society if ethical relativism prevails?
Discuss on the possible results if respect for human life and telling the
truth
are not accepted.
Assignments

Research on the following:

Universal Values
Filipino Values
Review the ambivalent FIlipino cultural values. Make a
critical appraisal.