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relativism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈrɛlətɪˌvɪzəm/

KK: /rɛlətɪvɪzəm/

noun
Definition

A belief or theory in philosophy that suggests that truth and moral values are not fixed but vary based on different perspectives or cultures.


Example

Relativism challenges the idea that there is a single, absolute truth that applies to everyone.


Conversation
Sloth A
I was reading about relativism in ethics, and it really got me thinking.
Sloth B
Oh really? What did you find interesting about it?
Sloth A
I like how it suggests that our moral values can change based on different cultures.
Sloth B
That makes sense; it definitely opens up a lot of discussions about right and wrong.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
subjectivism
pluralism
contextualism
Antonyms
absolutism
objectivism
universalism
Root Explanation

Relativism → It is formed from "relativus" (from Latin, meaning related or relative) and the suffix "-ism" (meaning a doctrine or belief). The word "relativism" refers to the belief that points of view have no absolute truth or validity, but rather are relative to the perspectives of individuals or cultures.

Memory Tip

Think of 'relative' to remember that 'relativism' is about beliefs that are related to different perspectives.

Visually Confused Words
correlativism
prelatism
reflationism
rotativism
negativism
electivism
eleaticism
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