Understanding Cultural Relativism

In discussions about societal norms, the term 'cultural relativism' refers to the perspective that a person's beliefs and activities should be understood based on that person's own culture, rather than be judged against the criteria of another culture. Advocates of cultural relativism assert that no culture is superior to another, and that understanding and tolerance can only arise from appreciating cultural differences. The discussion often emphasizes the importance of empathy and the acknowledgment of diversity in human practices. However, critics argue that cultural relativism can lead to ethical quandaries where harmful practices might be excused under the guise of cultural tradition.