Passage 1: In contemporary philosophy, some theorists propose that the concept of moral relativism offers a more nuanced understanding of ethical standards across different cultures. These philosophers argue that moral judgments are not universally applicable but rather contingent on cultural context. Advocates of moral relativism contend that acknowledging diverse moral frameworks fosters tolerance and understanding among societies.
Passage 2: Conversely, other ethicists argue that moral absolutism is essential for establishing invariant ethical principles that transcend cultural distinctions. They assert that certain values, such as justice and freedom, are universally recognized and must be upheld regardless of cultural variances. This perspective posits that without a commitment to absolute moral truths, ethical discourse becomes fragmented and subjective.