Relativism and Morality

Relativism and Morality

Based on different sociology dissertations, morality has been an issue that many societies globally have been trying to contend. This term is used to describe the code of acceptable behaviors in a given context or society. On the other hand, a moral minimum is a word that goes hand in hand with morality. This essentially sets a standard or rather a principle by which the members of a society have to adhere to so that they may be considered to be operating within the limits of proper moral conduct. The advent of civilization has given room to various forms that moral minima can be derived. As such, morality has become an issue that is interpreted in different ways depending on the angle at which one looks or evaluates it.

Therefore, this has given rise to at least three areas where morality is supposedly received or obtained. Firstly, morality can be considered relative to the laws of a given nation so that what the law stipulates as right then is morally upright. Secondly, morality can be said to have also been derived from religion where the various religious affiliations have their own holy books by which members are beseeched to behave in a certain manner. Finally, it is the personal source of morality. This is what has sparked a lot of controversy as is subject to millions of interpretation and understandings. Consequently, this is what I believe triggered influential philosophers like Lenn Goodman to spirited argument that there are some things, which are certainly wrong. In this regard, this study seeks to explore the credits or challenges Goodman presents in his assertions.

In his argument, Mr. Goodman confirms the existence of four fundamental and universal things that fall under the category of wrong and unacceptable acts in society-moral minima. First is genocide that encompasses politically instigated famine and germ warfare. Second is the act of terrorism that also includes kidnapping and child labor force especially as warriors. Next category is polygamy that may also be extended to cover slavery and incest. Rape and female genital mutilation are also another category. Undoubtedly, I can say that I share the same sentiments with him. In fact, majority of what he has outlined in his arguments in the eyes of most of the civilized population is regarded as acts directed to deny human beings the right to a comfortable life and as such immoral. Therefore, I surmise that Goodman was extremely right to list down the ills that affect or can affect any society.

However, his postulations have not been spared the critical thoughts of brains that always formulate questions to attempt and challenge facts. Considering that we live in a world where everything is subject to varied interpretations- theory of relativity, some of the Goodman's ideas gravely contradict the customs and traditions, which have largely been acceptable in some societies. For instance, by