Social Contract Theory and Cultural Relativism Essay

Thomas Hobbes’s social contract theory is minimally related to that of cultural relativism. Both deal with human nature and the search for peace. But while cultural relativism is in some ways a noteworthy theory, the social contract theory is the only one of the two that could logically work in an active environment. Cultural relativism theorizes that the best way for different societies to function together at peace is for them to recognize that each culture must be allowed its own system of beliefs. One individual may believe that his or her culture’s belief system is the one true way. Is there any way to absolutely prove that that person’s morals are not correct? Not in the cultural relativist view. Cultural relativism states†¦show more content†¦Therefore, we can state, as James Rachels does on page 24, â€Å"there is no objective ‘truth’ in morality. Right and wrong are only matters of opinion, and opinions vary from culture to culture.† Since no differing beliefs may be considered right and wrong, the only solution is to let cultural relativism take effect. Any rational people understanding this theory will realize that their beliefs are considered to be true merely because it is their own culture’s beliefs. Others’ views must be held just as high as their own even though the two are not in agreement. Ideally, cultural relativism could allow this kind of understanding recognition between societies to develop and bring about coexistent peace. In reality, however, this can never be achieved to its supposedly full potential. This view of cultural relativism would theoretically work if everyone would cooperate like this. Sure, it sounds wonderful: two different cultures can put aside their differences and live in peace and balance together to make the world a better place where everybody gets along and will live happily ever after. But – here is where the nasty part comes in – humans are apt to disagreements no matter what. Of course, many would adhere to culturally relativistic beliefs if this theory were somehow globally instated, but there are too many trivial issues in the theory that would still be left open for more argument. It does not follow, â€Å"from the mere fact that people disagree† (Rachels 24),Show MoreRelatedAct Utilitarian1168 Words   |  5 PagesDefinition of Social Contract Ethics Social contract ethics is the â€Å"state of nature† that we are living in. According to Waller (2005) Thomas Hobbes describes social contract ethics â€Å"as life in the state of nature is â€Å"war of all against all† and in the state of nature life is â€Å"nasty, brutal and short† (p.64). We are didn’t have to sign a contract to be a part of this we are born into it. Life is not what we sign up for it is what we come to know and learn. 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