The Ethics Of Moral Relativism

According to German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, "You have your way, I have my way. As for the right way, it does not exist." (Schumacher, Robin). Such a philosophy, known as moral relativism, is the belief that there is no absolute truth or morality; it has been growing in Western society since the time of the ancient Greeks. Since then, it has become a ubiquitous philosophy, in both the secular world and Christian communities. Philosophy professor Emrys Westacott defines moral relativism as "the view that moral judgments are true or false only relative to some particular standpoint (for instance, that of a culture or a historical period) and that no standpoint is uniquely privileged over all others." This principle poses many problems.

Firstly, people are drawn towards sin, and therefore towards ideas that permit sin. Moral relativism teaches that there is no right or wrong, only what is acceptable for the individual. This allows people to do whatever they "feel" is right, rather than adhere to moral and ethical standards. Secondly relativism is often endorsed because it simply sounds nice; saying everybody 's culture, religion, and beliefs are equal seems to be a kind and accepting way of life. On the surface, relativism allows people from various backgrounds from disagreeing on serious issues. In actuality, however, this is impossible. Thirdly, societal pressure often draws people towards an acceptance of moral relativism. Modern society ridicules those who oppose relativism; instead of encouraging individuals hold firm to their beliefs, society called moral objectivists bigots, backward, and close-minded. Young adolescents, especially, are susceptible to societal pressures. With constant media influence, lack of proper guidance, and fear of ostracization, young people grow up knowing nothing but moral

Starting with the Ancient Greeks, moral relativism has become one of Western culture 's most prominent ideologies. Instead of seeing through the crumbly façade of relativism, both secular and Christian cultures have fully endorsed this philosophy. We see moral relativism in almost all areas of life, from magazines to movies to our Sunday morning sermons. However, we as Christians are called to "[s]ee to it that no one takes [us] captive by philosophy and empty deceit..." And this includes moral relativism (Colossians