Big Ideas. Moral relativism.
Details
*The Challenge of Relativism
One influential variety of moral scepticism begins from the observation that different cultures seem to have different ethical views. Some cultures think polygamy is immoral, others think that it is perfectly proper. Some cultures think it permissible to abandon the elderly to die, others that the elderly must be treated with particular respect and reverence.
These apparent differences have led many to reject the idea of universal ethical truth. There is, the idea goes, nothing more than different cultural customs. None can be condemned as wrong or honored as right, for there is no ‘ cultural standpoint’ from which such a universal assessment could be made, or from which practical or applied ethical advice might proceed.
Cultural relativism has attracted a good deal of criticism.
First, even granting the observations of ethical differences between cultures, it does not follow that there is no universal moral truth: It does not follow from the fact that people disagree about whether or not polygamy is wrong that there is no fact of the matter, any more than it followed from the fact that people disagreed about the shape of the earth that there was no fact of that matter.
Second, even allowing, again, that there is quite dramatic ethical disagreement, it might still be the case that there is a very large area of ethical consensus. There may be some moral rules – ‘gratuitous killing is wrong’ perhaps – held by all communities at all times.
https://www.britannica.com/topic/ethical-relativism/Criticisms-of-ethical-relativism
Phillipa Foot on morality.
Questions.
1.Is moral relativism the best ethical basis for cultural tolerance?
2 Do moral relativist exaggerate just how much cultures differ from each other in terms of morality?
3 Can we think of different moral positions held within the same culture?
4 Would a relativist say that slavery was moral, in the past?
5 Do you agree that no society ought to interfere with individuals from another society in order to confront them on specific practices of their society?
6. What do you think of Phillipa Foot's views on moral facts?
7. Is there a way of combining moral relativism and moral absolutism?
Possible issues which relate to this discussion....
Treatment of minorities, torture. FGM,different cultural practices,abortion, treatment of women, punishments.
What is the purpose of the group?*
The aim of this group is to develop an understanding and appreciation of some philosophical, psychological or, simply, original ideas.
What will we do?
Each month I will introduce the topic and facilitate the discussion.
We will focus on 2 questions :
- what do we think about these ideas - positive/negative interesting aspects?
- can we apply these ideas to our everyday lives and personal circumstances?
Before each meeting, I will provide a useful resource for you to look at (e.g. a video clip or a short extract from a book or article).
Who is the group for?
Anyone who is curious, reflective and enjoys exploring ideas (philosophical/ethical). No prior knowledge of philosophy is required and all contributions will be valued.
At the meeting on 11-01-23 we will start by discussing how to keep your New Year resolutions according to Epictetus. I will send out resources to all those who have confirmed they will be attending.