Ethical Relativism

Definition

Ethical relativism is the belief that moral standards are not universal and can vary based on cultural, societal, or personal perspectives. This idea suggests that what is considered right or wrong can differ greatly across different groups and contexts, leading to a more nuanced understanding of ethical standards and codes of conduct. Ethical relativism challenges the notion of absolute morality and prompts individuals to consider the complexities of ethical decision-making in diverse environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethical relativism emphasizes that moral judgments are shaped by cultural norms and personal experiences, making them subjective rather than objective.
2. This perspective can lead to greater tolerance and understanding, as it encourages people to appreciate differing moral views without harsh judgment.
3. Critics argue that ethical relativism may prevent individuals from condemning harmful practices within cultures, leading to moral paralysis.
4. In journalism, ethical relativism raises important questions about how reporters should approach stories involving culturally sensitive issues and practices.
5. The concept challenges the development of universal ethical guidelines, as what might be deemed acceptable in one society could be considered unethical in another.

Review Questions

• How does ethical relativism influence journalistic practices when reporting on culturally diverse subjects?
  • Ethical relativism influences journalistic practices by prompting reporters to approach culturally diverse subjects with sensitivity and an understanding of varying moral perspectives. It encourages journalists to consider the cultural context behind behaviors and practices before passing judgment or presenting them in a negative light. This approach fosters responsible reporting that respects cultural differences while still upholding journalistic integrity.
• Discuss the potential drawbacks of adopting an ethical relativist perspective in professional settings, particularly in journalism.
  • Adopting an ethical relativist perspective in journalism can lead to challenges such as moral ambiguity and inconsistency in reporting standards. It may create dilemmas when journalists face practices they find ethically troubling but feel compelled to respect due to cultural considerations. This tension can hinder their ability to report truthfully and uphold their responsibility to inform the public while navigating complex moral landscapes.
• Evaluate how ethical relativism could impact the formulation of universal ethical codes for journalists across different cultures.
  • Ethical relativism could significantly complicate the formulation of universal ethical codes for journalists because it highlights the diversity of moral beliefs and practices across cultures. If ethics are seen as relative, it becomes challenging to establish guidelines that all journalists can agree upon, potentially leading to inconsistent practices in reporting. This situation may result in a lack of accountability and trust in journalism, as standards may vary widely based on cultural norms rather than shared principles.

Related terms

Cultural Relativism: The view that a person's beliefs and activities should be understood based on that person's own culture, rather than be judged against the criteria of another culture.

Moral Absolutism: The belief that certain actions are absolutely right or wrong, regardless of the context or situation, contrasting sharply with ethical relativism.

Situational Ethics: A philosophical approach to ethics that suggests that the rightness or wrongness of an action depends on the context in which it occurs, aligning closely with ethical relativism.