What does the principle of ethical relativism reject?

What does the principle of ethical relativism reject?

• A. The idea of subjective morality
• B. The application of universal values
• C. The importance of personal beliefs
• D. The existence of absolute truths

Answer: (B)

The principle of ethical relativism fundamentally rejects the application of universal values, asserting that moral judgments and beliefs are shaped by cultural, societal, and individual circumstances rather than by any objective or universal standards. This perspective suggests that what's considered morally right or wrong can vary significantly between different cultures and societies, meaning that there is no single ethical framework that can apply universally to all people in all situations.

In contrast, ethical relativism posits that moral frameworks are relative to specific contexts, rejecting the notion that there are overarching values that can be applied universally. While subjective morality, personal beliefs, and absolute truths play roles in philosophical discussions on ethics, ethical relativism maintains that these elements are inherently tied to individual or cultural perspectives, making universal application untenable. This allows for a diverse array of moral views to coexist, each valid within its own context, rather than a single ethical standard that everyone must adhere to.