Understanding Ethical Relativism

What does ethical relativism suggest about moral values?

• Moral values are inherent and can be scientifically proven.

• Moral values are determined by religious authorities.

• Moral values and beliefs are relative to individuals or societies.

• Moral values are universal and unchanging.

Which of the following is NOT a form of ethical relativism mentioned in the text?

• Global ethical relativism

• None of the above

• Social or cultural ethical relativism

• Personal or individual ethical relativism

According to personal ethical relativism, who is the basis of moral judgments?

• The society

• Religious leaders

• The individual person

• Government laws

What does social or cultural ethical relativism emphasize?

• Individual beliefs over societal norms

• The influence of science on ethics

• The role of society in shaping ethical values

• The universal principles of morality

Which example illustrates individual ethical relativism?

• The abandonment of the elderly on ice by the Inuit

• The practice of sati in ancient India

• Judicial systems worldwide

• Global consensus on human rights

What stance would a social ethical relativist likely take on the ancient Indian practice of sati?

• It is universally immoral.

• It is irrelevant in the context of ethical discussion.

• It is justified within that particular culture.

• It should be judged by modern Western standards.

What is a possible reason supporting ethical relativism?

• The consistency of moral values across cultures

• The ability to scientifically prove moral principles

• The diversity of moral values

• The universal acceptance of certain ethical principles

What does the presence of moral uncertainty suggest according to ethical relativists?

• Objective moral truths are easily attainable.

• There is difficulty in knowing what is morally right, supporting relativism.

• Moral certainty is common in all cultures.

• Ethical standards are the same in every situation.

According to the text, what complicates the belief in a universal right or wrong?

• Government regulations

• Situational differences among people

• Historical consistency in ethical beliefs

• Global communication

What does the example of the Inuit practice of leaving the elderly on ice illustrate?

• Universal ethical standards

• Individual ethical relativism

• The failure of cultural practices

• The role of government in ethical decisions