CULTURAL RELATIVISM IN MODERN ETHICS: CHALLENGES AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO MORAL PHILOSOPHY

Abstract

Cultural relativism, the view that moral values and ethical standards are rooted in and vary according to cultural contexts, remains a central debate in contemporary ethics. This article examines the theoretical foundations of cultural relativism and its implications for universal moral principles, human rights, and cross-cultural dialogue. It critically analyzes arguments for and against relativism, exploring its potential to foster tolerance and understanding as well as its challenges in addressing moral conflicts and ethical absolutism. Through philosophical analysis and case studies, the paper highlights the nuanced role cultural relativism plays in shaping modern ethical discourse.