Learn the definition of cultural relativism and its relevance for HR professionals preparing for the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification exam. Explore how local culture, laws, and practices shape ethical norms.
Table of Contents
Question
What statement best defines cultural relativism?
Answer
Ethics is determined by local culture, laws, and practices. Cultural relativism holds that ethical systems do exist but that norms are influenced by local culture, laws, and practices
Explanation
Cultural relativism is the view that ethical systems and moral standards are relative to and shaped by the local culture, laws, and practices of a particular society. According to cultural relativism, there is no single universal set of ethics that applies to all cultures and societies. Instead, what is considered right or wrong is determined by the specific cultural context.
The key aspects of cultural relativism are:
- Ethical norms vary across cultures: Different societies have different moral codes based on their unique histories, traditions, religions, and values. What may be considered ethical in one culture could be deemed unethical in another.
- No universal moral standards: Cultural relativism rejects the idea of universal, absolute moral principles that apply to all people regardless of their cultural background. It holds that ethical systems are relative rather than absolute.
- Local factors shape ethics: The local culture, laws, and practices of a society are the primary influences on its ethical norms and values. These factors can include religious beliefs, social customs, legal systems, and historical experiences.
For HR professionals, understanding cultural relativism is crucial when operating in diverse, multicultural workplaces or global business environments. It highlights the need to be sensitive to and respectful of different cultural norms and practices, while also navigating the complexities of ensuring fair and ethical treatment of all employees. HR professionals must balance the recognition of cultural differences with the need to uphold core organizational values and comply with relevant laws and regulations.
In summary, cultural relativism is the belief that ethical systems and moral standards are not universal but are instead relative to and shaped by the specific cultural context, including local customs, laws, and practices. For the SHRM-SCP exam, it’s important to understand this concept and its implications for HR professionals working in diverse, multicultural settings.
SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the SHRM-SCP exam and earn SHRM-SCP certification.