Two ethical systemsTwo ethical systemsLO: I will know about Absolutism and Relativism I will evaluate Relativism

Recap: What is Ethics?Starter question: Define “good” and “bad.” How do we know if something is good or bad?

Comprehension Task!Comprehension Task!Read through the handout

◦KEY QUESTION: Explain what is Absolutism and Relativism?

Tips: Read the information, and rewrite, summarising into your own words what you have read.

Mentioning real life examples will help If there are any words that you don’t know,

look them up in a dictionary. Don’t just mindlessly copy! Understanding is

crucial!

• ABSOLUTISM is a rule that is true in all situations. E.g. Killing is wrong.

•RELATIVISM is a judgement that depends on the circumstances. There is no universal right or wrong. E.g. Polygamy is acceptable in other cultures but not in the UK.

Definitions to copy …Definitions to copy …

Relativism unpacked – Two Relativism unpacked – Two forms … forms … Subjectivism: Each persons values are

relative to the person. It is a matter of taste. Individual

Cultural Relativism: What is right or wrong depends on the culture. Moral rules are expressions of the culture. Corporate

CULTURAL RELATIVISM: Different CULTURAL RELATIVISM: Different cultures express different moral codes cultures express different moral codes of conduct.of conduct.

King Darius (of Persia 521-486 BCE) observed that while certain Greeks burnt the bodies of their fathers, a different people called the Callations (Asian tribal people) ate the bodies of their fathers. He brought the two groups together and asked each how much he would have to pay them to adopt the practice of the other. In both cases, the groups were outraged at the suggestion and refused to follow the practice of the other for any amount of money. What was right for one tribe was wrong for the other.

““When in Rome, do as the Romans When in Rome, do as the Romans do”do”

This view also promotes the idea that Objectivity is a myth. J. L MACKIE sees the existence of diverse ethical values expressed in different times and cultures as evidence that no moral absolutes exist.

J L Mackie also argues that the society in which we live in shapes our moral beliefs, rather than our moral beliefs shaping society.

Your response to Your response to relativismrelativismWhat do you think of Relativism?

Evaluate RelativismEvaluate RelativismUsing Bowie books, pg 17-18, spend some time

reading and making a list of what the strengths and weaknesses are. You are to focus on Relativism only at this stage.

HOMEWORK: Read dialogue article, ‘Are Values Relative to Culture?’ and make additional notes on the strengths and weaknesses of Cultural Relativism.

We will begin next lesson with a discussion on what’s good and bad about this system of ethics.

PlenaryPlenary3 – 3 – 1