Relativism: meaning, definitions and examples
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relativism
[ˈrɛlətɪvɪz(ə)m ]
Definition
philosophy
The doctrine that knowledge, truth, and morality exist in relation to culture, society, or historical context, and are not absolute.
Synonyms
cultural relativism, moral relativism, societal relativism.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| relativism |
Used in general discussions about the idea that points of view have no absolute truth or validity and are only relative to particular perspectives or contexts.
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| cultural relativism |
Used specifically in discussions about anthropology or cross-cultural studies, where it implies understanding a culture on its own terms without judging it by the standards of another culture.
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| moral relativism |
Used in ethical debates to describe the belief that moral judgments are not absolute but vary from culture to culture or individual to individual.
|
| societal relativism |
Typically used in sociological contexts when discussing how different societies have their own norms and values, which are relative rather than universal.
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Examples of usage
- Relativism argues that there is no universal standard for judging moral actions.
- Cultural relativism suggests that what is considered right or wrong can vary between different societies.
- In philosophical debates, relativism often challenges the idea of objective truth.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term comes from the Latin word 'relativus', which means 'related' or 'connected'.
- It entered philosophical discussions in the late 19th century, especially through the works of thinkers like Wilhelm dilthey and John Dewey.
- Relativism contrasts with 'absolutism', which holds that some truths are universal and unchanging.
Philosophy
- Relativism is often divided into moral, cultural, and epistemological categories, each exploring how context influences understanding.
- The belief that there's no single correct view of things has been prominent in multiple philosophical traditions, including existentialism.
- Critics of relativism argue that if all views are equally valid, then it may lead to moral confusion or inaction.
Sociology
- Cultural relativism promotes understanding and tolerance by appreciating different cultures on their own terms.
- Social scientists study how relativism can influence cross-cultural interactions and global dialogues.
- This viewpoint has been instrumental in debates over human rights and social justice, challenging the idea of a one-size-fits-all morality.
Science
- Einstein's theory of relativity fundamentally shifted our understanding of space and time, showcasing how perspective affects physical laws.
- In science, relativism highlights the importance of context and bias, especially in the interpretation of data.
- This approach can sometimes clash with scientific objectivity, raising debates about the role of personal belief in scientific inquiry.
Literature
- Relativism in literary theory suggests that texts can have multiple interpretations, depending on the reader's background.
- Postmodern literature often embraces relativistic ideas, blurring the lines between truth, fiction, and perspective.
- Authors like Franz Kafka and Jorge Luis Borges explored themes of relativity in their works, challenging readers’ perceptions.
Translations
Translations of the word "relativism" in other languages:
🇵🇹 relativismo
🇮🇳 सापेक्षवाद
🇩🇪 Relativismus
🇮🇩 relativisme
🇺🇦 релятивізм
🇵🇱 relatywizm
🇯🇵 相対主義 (そうたいしゅぎ)
🇫🇷 relativisme
🇪🇸 relativismo
🇹🇷 rölativizm
🇰🇷 상대주의
🇸🇦 النسبية
🇨🇿 relativismus
🇸🇰 relativizmus
🇨🇳 相对主义 (xiāngduì zhǔyì)
🇸🇮 relativizem
🇮🇸 afstæðishyggja
🇰🇿 релятивизм
🇬🇪 რელატივიზმი
🇦🇿 relativizm
🇲🇽 relativismo