Understanding Cultural Relativism: A Beginner’s Guide

Understanding Cultural Relativism: A Beginner’s Guide

Culture is an inescapable force that plays a vital role in shaping our worldview, beliefs, and practices. While it may be easy to criticize a culture that differs from our own, it’s essential first to understand the concept of cultural relativism.

Cultural relativism is a philosophical theory that asserts that cultural values, beliefs, and practices must be understood and judged in the context of that culture. In other words, cultural relativism argues that there is no objective standard that can be applied to determine the superiority or inferiority of one culture over the other.

History of Cultural Relativism

Anthropologists first coined the term cultural relativism in the early 20th century. The concept was developed in reaction to the ethnocentrism that characterized early anthropological thought, which held that one’s own culture was superior to others.

Franz Boas, often called the father of American anthropology, was among the most prominent anthropologists to espouse cultural relativism. Boas believed that each culture is unique and that the practices of one culture could not be understood in the context of another.

Key Principles of Cultural Relativism

To understand cultural relativism, it’s essential to know the key principles that underpin this theory. They are:

– No culture is superior to another: All cultures are equal in value and should be judged in their social, historical, and political context.

– Cultural practices must be evaluated according to their own merits: One culture’s practices shouldn’t be judged based on another culture’s standards.

– Understanding other cultures requires an open mind: Cultural relativism requires an open mind and a willingness to learn about other cultures without imposing our own values.

Examples Of Cultural Relativism

The practice of dowry in India is an excellent example of cultural relativism. In India, the bride’s family is expected to provide the groom’s family with a sum of money or assets as a sign of respect. To Westerners, this practice may seem unfair or misogynist. However, to the bride’s family, it’s an essential cultural tradition that demonstrates respect for the groom’s family.

Another example is the Japanese tea ceremony. To Westerners, the practice may seem unnecessarily rigid and formal. However, to the Japanese, it’s a way to connect with their cultural heritage and demonstrate respect for their guests, their tea utensils, and the tea itself.

The Pros And Cons Of Cultural Relativism

Proponents of cultural relativism argue that it promotes tolerance, reduces cultural conflict, and encourages people to appreciate other cultures. They believe that cultural relativism can build stronger relationships by helping people understand the differences and similarities between cultures.

However, critics of cultural relativism argue that it promotes moral relativism and encourages people to tolerate practices that may be objectively harmful or discriminatory. They believe that cultural relativism fails to address the fact that some practices are objectively morally wrong, regardless of cultural context.

Conclusion

Cultural relativism offers valuable insights into cultural diversity and the importance of acknowledging and respecting different viewpoints and beliefs. Understanding cultural relativism is essential in developing cross-cultural communication skills and building strong relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. By recognizing and understanding the principles of cultural relativism, we can develop more meaningful relationships and promote cultural acceptance and respect.