MCAT® ExamCritical Analysis and Reasoning SkillsEasy
A philosopher argues that ethical truths are not absolute or universally applicable, but rather are relative to particular cultures, historical periods, or individual perspectives. Therefore, what is considered 'right' or 'wrong' can vary significantly across different contexts. This philosophical stance is known as:
- AMoral Relativism
- BVirtue Ethics
- CUtilitarianism
- DDeontology
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Moral Relativism
Moral relativism is the philosophical position that moral judgments are true or false only relative to particular standpoints or frameworks, such as cultural norms or individual beliefs, rather than being universally or absolutely true. The description directly aligns with this concept.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Virtue ethics focuses on the character of the moral agent rather than rules or consequences. (Incorrect)
- C. Utilitarianism is a consequentialist theory that judges actions based on their outcomes, specifically maximizing overall happiness. (Incorrect)
- D. Deontology is an ethical theory that judges the morality of an action based on rules, duties, and obligations, regardless of consequences. (Incorrect)
Moral Relativism
The philosophical position that moral judgments are true or false only relative to particular standpoints, such as cultural or individual beliefs.
- Contrasts with moral universalism/absolutism.
- Suggests no single, objective moral standard.
- Can lead to tolerance of diverse moral practices.
Memory trick: Ethics are like lenses; some are universal, some are relative.