Why Can't We Agree? - Cultural Relativism Part 1

Copyright Janet Cameron

People have long considered how different patterns of behaviour and use of language in human beings suggest that they perceive the world different ways.

In "Perceptions, Cultural Differences," in The Mind, the author (unnamed) explains a peculiar phenomenon, the theory that awkward translations prove that the Greeks saw colours differently from the way we see colours today, and that there might be differences in perception between those who live in the West, from people who live in the East.

The theory is not just about visual perceptions. It also encompasses the most fundamental issues about how we perceive and understand what goes on around us.

We See Our World Through Different Models

In his article, "Why We Can't Agree" in Philosophy Now, Howard Darmstadter uses extreme examples from the animal kingdom to demonstrate how living things use models to deal with their immediate environment and survival.

"A wildebeest on the African plain - aware of much in its environment, unaware of much else. The presence of suitable grasses, the whereabouts of predators, and the actions of other wildebeest, get its attention, but wind currents, the flights of birds, and the doings of small mammals are of no concern."

The eagle, soaring way above the fleeing wildebeest, will, clearly, have a vastly different model in order to deal with her own survival. Again, the human hunters on the ground will be looking for signs indicating edible plants or game, while a geologist's model will focus on rock formations, overlooking signs of animal prey.

What is Cultural Relativism?

So, how can we know whether we are right or wrong? Should historical figures be judged within the context of their culture at that time? In other words, should we refuse to make allowances for actions that we would find morally reprehensible today? Should we disparage other cultures whose rituals and practices repulse us in present times?

The cultural relativists would say "No, no, no! Definitely not."

The website "All About Philosophy" displays an article "Cultural Relativism" which defines the term as follows:

"Cultural relativism is the view that all beliefs, customs, and ethics are relative to the individual within his own social context. In other words, “right” and “wrong” are culture-specific; what is considered moral in one society may be considered immoral in another, and, since no universal standard of morality exists, no one has the right to judge another society’s customs."

The cultural relativists certainly do believe this, and where our senses of justice and empathy are not challenged, we, too, might think this is perfectly acceptable. However, it might take an exceptional ability to look at the bigger picture without being disturbed by the underlying detail.

Can we take this theory on board without a qualm of conscience?

Continued: Truth is Variable, Cultural Relativism Part 2