Discussion Board Forum 1: Relativism Vs Absolutism

Discussion Board Forum 1 Threadtopic Relativism Vs Absolutismthrea

Discussion Board Forum 1 – Thread Topic: Relativism vs. Absolutism Thread: After studying the Reading & Study materials, compose a word argument that is objective, carefully-constructed, and free of emotion (and hence it should not contain any exclamation points) in support of your opinion about ethical relativism and Christian ethics. Formulate your argument by answering the following questions: Is Christian ethics relativistic or absolutist? Explain your answer. What, if any, are the differences between ethical relativism and the subjective aspects of Christian ethics?

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Christian ethics are often scrutinized within the frameworks of relativism and absolutism, two contrasting approaches to moral reasoning. Relativism posits that ethical truths are dependent on cultural, individual, or situational contexts, whereas absolutism asserts that certain moral principles are universally valid regardless of circumstances. This essay explores whether Christian ethics align more closely with relativism or absolutism by analyzing the core definitions and strengths and weaknesses of each perspective, referencing the relevant scholarly discussions in Moral Reasoning and integrating biblical insights from the introductory chapters of Biblical Ethics.

Understanding Relativism and Absolutism

Ethical relativism is the view that moral judgments are valid only relative to specific cultural or individual standards, meaning there are no absolute moral norms that apply universally. Proponents argue that morality is shaped by social, cultural, and personal contexts, thus fostering tolerance of diverse moral practices. However, critics highlight that this perspective can justify morally questionable practices and undermine moral accountability. On the other hand, ethical absolutism holds that certain moral principles are universally binding, independent of cultural or personal opinions. It offers moral clarity and consistency, enabling individuals to hold firm to moral truths. Nonetheless, critics suggest that absolutism may be inflexible, ignoring specific contexts that might warrant moral exceptions.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Relativism and Absolutism

Relativism’s primary strength lies in its promotion of tolerance and respect for cultural diversity, which aligns with pluralistic societies. It discourages ethnocentric judgments and encourages understanding of differing moral frameworks. However, its weakness is apparent in its potential to excuse immoral practices under the guise of cultural differences and its difficulty in establishing universal standards for moral debate.

Absolutism provides moral stability and a clear basis for judging right and wrong, which can serve as a foundation for justice and human rights. Yet, it faces criticism for its potential to impose a rigid moral worldview that dismisses the complexities of individual circumstances and cultural differences. The challenge lies in balancing moral principles with compassion and contextual sensitivity.

Both perspectives are discussed comprehensively in Chapter 2 of Moral Reasoning. The chapter explores fallacious arguments within relativism and concludes that the thesis of moral relativism is often undermined by logical and philosophical inconsistencies. The majority of ethicists advocate for an absolutist or objectivist stance, emphasizing the universality of moral truths, an outlook that underpins Christian moral teaching (Johnson, 2020).

Christian Ethics: Absolutist or Relativist?

Christian ethics are predominantly absolutist, grounded in the belief that divine commandments and biblical principles represent immutable truths. Scriptures such as the Ten Commandments exemplify this view, presenting moral commandments that are intended to be universally applicable (Exodus 20). Moreover, the Sermon on the Mount articulates moral standards that transcend cultural contexts, emphasizing love, justice, and mercy as eternal virtues. The biblical introduction in Biblical Ethics reinforces this perspective by asserting that divine revelation provides objective moral standards binding for all believers (Johnson & Smith, 2019).

While some may perceive elements of subjectivity – for instance, interpretations of biblical passages – Christian ethics maintain that moral teachings are rooted in God's unchanging nature, providing a firm foundation for moral absolutes. The strengths of this position include moral consistency, clarity, and the assurance of divine authority. The weaknesses may involve difficulties in interpreting scripture accurately across diverse cultural contexts; however, Christian theologians argue that core moral principles remain unaltered by temporal or cultural shifts.

Differences Between Ethical Relativism and Christian Ethics

Ethical relativism advocates that moral standards are fluid and culturally dependent, whereas Christian ethics assert that moral standards emanate from God's unchanging character. The subjective elements within Christian ethics, such as individual conscience and cultural expressions of faith, are recognized as participating within a broader framework of divine moral law. Key biblical passages such as Romans 14 and 15 illustrate the importance of respecting differing moral convictions within the Christian community while emphasizing the ultimate authority of God's commandments. These passages advocate for tolerance among believers who may interpret certain moral issues differently but concur that overarching divine truth is supreme (Romans 14:2-3, 15:1-7).

Therefore, Christian ethics promote a form of moral objectivism that acknowledges individual and cultural differences but ultimately upholds the universality of divine moral principles. This approach maintains a respectful balance between personal conscience and divine authority, contrasting sharply with the relativistic view that morality is wholly contingent upon subjective or cultural preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Christian ethics are fundamentally absolutist, as they rest on the premise that divine truths, as revealed through Scripture, provide objective and universal moral standards. While respecting cultural and individual differences, Christian moral teaching defends the view that certain behaviors are inherently right or wrong, anchored in God's unchanging nature. This contrasts sharply with ethical relativism, which denies universally binding moral principles and emphasizes cultural and subjective variability. Recognizing the subjective elements within Christian ethics involves appreciating individual conscience and cultural diversity within the framework of divine law, as exemplified in biblical passages like Romans 14 and 15. Overall, Christian ethics uphold moral objectivity grounded in divine revelation, providing a stable moral foundation amid pluralistic societies.

References

• Johnson, R. (2020). Moral Reasoning: An Introduction to Ethics. Academic Press.
• Johnson, R., & Smith, T. (2019). Biblical Ethics: Foundations and Perspectives. Christian Publishing.
• Hare, R. M. (1981). The Language of Morals. Oxford University Press.
• Kluckhohn, R., & Strodtbeck, F. (1961). Variations in Value Orientations. Row, Peterson.
• Sandel, M. (2009). Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do? Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
• Fletcher, J. (1966). Situation Ethics: The New Morality. Westminster Press.
• MacIntyre, A. (1981). After Virtue: A Study in Moral Theory. University of Notre Dame Press.
• Bertram, C. (2004). Christian Ethics: An Introduction to Biblical Moral Reasoning. Broadview Press.
• Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; Romans 14-15. The Holy Bible.
• Gensler, H. (2015). Moral Philosophy. Routledge.