What is the definition of the term ''cultural relativism'' and what are some key ideas and critiques of the concept?

Cultural relativism is the idea that a person's beliefs, values, and practices should be understood based on their own culture rather than judged by the standards of another culture. In other words, cultural relativism holds that there are no objective universal standards for evaluating cultural practices, but rather cultural norms and values are valid within their own cultural context.

One key idea of cultural relativism is that it promotes tolerance and respect for other cultures. It allows individuals to understand and appreciate cultural differences without imposing their own values and beliefs on others. However, some critiques of cultural relativism argue that it can be used to justify oppressive or harmful practices within a culture. Critics also argue that cultural relativism undermines the concept of universal human rights and prevents social progress. It may lead to moral relativism, the idea that morality is entirely subjective and there are no objective moral truths.