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relativism

The concept of relativism basically states that human beliefs, values, and truths are completely dependent upon the person or group interpreting them. In other words, there are no absolutes in the world because there are an infinite number of ways to observe things. Relativism ultimately explains that all ideas and beliefs are subjective.

On an ethical standpoint, relativism refutes the idea that there are definitive "rights and wrongs." Moral relativists believe that humans are not in a position to state that another culture's moral beliefs are wrong. This is because all morals are right from a certain perspective. One culture's beliefs may differ from another, but neither has the right to say that only one is correct. Only when these beliefs and values are agreed upon may someone be allowed to pass judgment.

--Adam White

Sources:

Birrell, James R. "Relativism and the New Meaning of Tolerance in Americas Culture Wars." Meridian Magazine. 21 March 2004.
http://www.meridianmagazine.com/ideas/030319relativism.html

"Moral Relativism - Neutral Thinking?" Moral Relativism. 22 March 2004.
http://www.moral-relativism.com

"Relativism." Definition of Relativism. Word IQ. 21 March 2004
http://www.wordiq.com/cgi-bin/knowledge/lookup.cgi?title=Relativism