Rachels provides that a minimum standard for the definition of morality, known as the minimum conception of morality (Rachels & Rachels, 2015). Morality has to be guided by reason. What even clarifies this minimum understanding of ethics is that the reason for a given action by a person must include consideration of its impact to other individuals affected. I agree with Rachel’s argument that moving away from the strict respect for the cultural differences into the view of ethical relativism is a violation of the minimum conception of ethics.
Ethical relativism is the philosophy that views morality as defined by the norms and practices of a given culture. Therefore, under ethical relativism, an action is regarded as moral or immoral depending on the norms of a particular society. An action that is deemed wrong in one culture may be acceptable in another. Therefore, there are no universal moral standards or minimum conception of morality under the philosophy of ethical relativism. There is no minimum ethical conception that can be applied to all people at the same time because of the differences in cultures. I disagree with this philosophy of ethical relativism because while the moral practices of societies may be different, the basic principles that inform these norms do not differ.
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My argument is that ethical relativism is not applicable in the modern global village, where interactions among people of different cultures have intensified with the advancement of technology. Therefore, there must be respect for the cultural differences that exist for people to interact well. Any action taken by a person has to be based on reason and empathetic consideration of its effect to the other individuals who come from different cultures. It is true that there are universal moral standards that have to be obeyed so that people can relate well. Ethical relativism can bring about animosity and conflicts among people, especially those of different cultures.
References
Rachels, J., & Rachels, S. (2015). The elements of moral philosophy (8th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
