Question

What do you mean by 'Cultural Relativism'?

• A. An attitude of judging other cultures based on the norms and values present in one's own culture
• B. The view that no culture is inferior or superior
• C. Having a sense of superiority
• D. Having a sense of inferiority

Hint:

- Ethnocentrism = Judging others using one's own culture as the standard (belief in superiority).
- Cultural Relativism = Understanding cultures on their own terms; no culture is superior or inferior (Franz Boas).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept:
Cultural relativism is one of the foundational theoretical and methodological principles of modern anthropological science.
Formulated by Franz Boas and elaborated by scholars like Ruth Benedict and Melville Herskovits, it revolutionized ethnographic fieldwork.
This question tests the definition and core premise of cultural relativism.

Step 1: Defining Cultural Relativism:
Cultural relativism is the methodological stance that all cultural beliefs, values, customs, and behaviors must be understood and analyzed strictly within their own specific cultural context.
It asserts that there is no absolute, universal ethical or evolutionary standard by which cultures can be hierarchically ranked.
Therefore, it holds the fundamental view that no culture is inherently superior or inferior to any other.

Step 2: Contrast with Ethnocentrism:
1. Ethnocentrism (Options A and C): The belief that one's own culture is superior, using one's own cultural norms as the standard to judge and disparage other societies.
2. Cultural relativism was established explicitly to counteract ethnocentrism, ensuring objective, empathetic, and scientific cross-cultural inquiry.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Cultural relativism is defined by the view that no culture is inferior or superior.
Therefore, Option (B) is the correct choice.