Philosophy Of Relativism

As human beings, we generally follow a thinking pattern that first involves developing our own opinions, then relating those opinions to the opinions of others. We often do this subconsciously; conscientious of what others believe, how they define certain actions, traits, and morals, and how their view towards what is just and unjust relates to our own. This fundamental thought process is the foundation of the philosophy of relativism.

To the common person, the term relativism encompasses a philosophy that states that what is right and what is wrong is defined based on context, and situation. For example, I may think that using marijuana is wrong because I am entering an industry that forbids the use of this drug. However, someone else may

For example, “justice is relative to local norms, truth is relative to a language-game, and the measurement of temperature is relative to the scale we use.” (Baghramian) This approach asks two questions: “what is relativized? And what is it relativized to?” (Baghramian) Another approach toward this philosophy is relativism by contrast. This approach focuses more toward what relativists deny, rather than accept. For example, relativism is contrasted with the ideas of absolutism, and Monism. Absolutism states that truths or values transcend time, and are not limited to social or cultural frameworks. Monism states that there is only one right answer per topic or subject, whereas relativism allows for multiple validities to a topic. Many philosophers also approach relativism with the hidden parameter definition: “a truth, idea, or justification may have an implicit, maybe even unnoticed relationship to a parameter or domain.” This means that there may be a general idea, or action thought to be either moral or immoral decided by who’s moral code is being used. For example, you may say that it is wrong to punish someone for killing in self defense based on YOUR moral code. However, you may also say that it is right to punish someone for killing in self defense based on MY moral code. Those philosophers who follow this definition believe that there is “no

I believe that in many ways relativism is a tool that many use to justify their actions, or rationalize a situation. Similarly, relativism can provide us with the ability to either focus on ourselves and our progress as humans, or dwell on the accomplishments of others. From personal experience, many times the use of relativism hurts more than helps me. When it helps me, it allows me to feel a sense of content and happiness when thinking about where I am in life. Although I live in a single parent household, with a variety of family issues and difficulties, I am, relatively speaking, very fortunate. I have a roof over my head, food to eat, a bed to sleep in, a loving family, and an outstanding education and hopeful career in front of me. When relativism hurts me, it is usually due to a slight lack in self-confidence. For example, if I am working out in a crowded gym, I usually feel disappointed in my lifting ability when I look to the guy in the rack next to me who is lifting significantly more than I am. At that moment I wish that I could be that person, but I immediately realize no I do not because life is relative. I have strengths in other areas where he may have weakness. This idea is essential to all human development. We must use relativism