What is the difference between moral relativism and moral absolutism?

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What is the difference between moral relativism and moral absolutism?

Moral relativism and moral absolutism are two contrasting ethical theories that address the nature of morality and the existence of universal moral principles.

Moral relativism posits that moral judgments and principles are subjective and vary across different individuals, cultures, or societies. According to this view, there are no absolute or objective moral truths, and what is considered morally right or wrong is determined by personal or cultural beliefs and values. Moral relativism allows for moral diversity and acknowledges that different perspectives can lead to different moral judgments.

On the other hand, moral absolutism asserts that there are objective and universal moral principles that apply to all individuals, regardless of their cultural or personal beliefs. It argues that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of the context or individual perspectives. Moral absolutism suggests that moral truths are independent of human opinions or cultural norms and can be discovered through reason or divine revelation.

In summary, the main difference between moral relativism and moral absolutism lies in their stance on the existence of objective moral truths. While moral relativism emphasizes subjective and culturally influenced moral judgments, moral absolutism asserts the existence of universal and objective moral principles.