Legal Definitions - moral relativism

Definition: Moral relativism is the belief that there are no fixed or universal standards of right and wrong. It suggests that what is considered right or wrong can vary depending on the individual, culture, or society. This is also known as ethical relativism or subjective ethics. It is the opposite of moral absolutism, which holds that there are objective and universal moral principles that apply to everyone, regardless of their culture or beliefs.

Examples: One example of moral relativism is the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in some African cultures. While this is considered a barbaric and cruel practice in many parts of the world, it is seen as a rite of passage and a cultural tradition in some African communities. Another example is the use of child labor in some developing countries. While this is considered unethical and illegal in many parts of the world, it is seen as a necessary means of survival for some families in impoverished regions.

These examples illustrate how what is considered right or wrong can vary depending on cultural or societal norms. Moral relativism suggests that there is no objective or universal standard of morality, and that what is considered right or wrong is subjective and relative to the individual or culture.