Absolutism & Relativism

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  • Created by: Saleena
  • Created on: 30-12-12 00:49

Absolutism

A moral judgement that relies on a fixed truth is Absolutist. An Absolute Rule says that somethings are inherently right or wrong, no matter the circumstance or situation; there is no room for change.

Strengths

  • Provides a Universal Code to measure everything against.
  • Enables us to have a UN Declaration of Human Rights.
  • Absolutism can be applied to everyone.
  • People instinctively take the Absolute Approach.
  • Easier to apply compared to Relativism.

Weakneses

  • Does not consider different circumstances and situations.
  • May not be clear as to what the right thing to do in a situation is.
  • Not concerned with the motive or outcome.
  • It's not always possible to do the right thing.
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Relativism

A moral judgement that takes circumstances into consideration is Relativist, because it is related to the situation and not to any fixed rules. Others have added Religion and Culture to things that help us define what is good and what is bad. Therefore, it means that actions are never inherently right or wrong. Only by weighing up the whole situation can a judgement be made.

Strengths

  • It is Flexible.
  • It Focuses on People.
  • Relativism allows people to take on Responsibility.

Weakneses

  • Judgments are always subjective.
  • No two people may agree on a Judgement.
  • Relativism does not allow Society to progress.
  • It is far more difficult to apply than Absolutism.
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