What is cultural relativism, and why is it used in studying other cultures?

• A. Judging cultures by universal standards
• B. Judging cultures by their own norms and values; it reduces ethnocentrism and bias in analysis
• C. It is the same as ethnocentrism
• D. It rejects all cultural differences

Answer: (B)

Cultural relativism involves evaluating a culture by its own norms and values and trying to understand beliefs and practices within their particular social and historical context. This approach helps researchers see why people act in certain ways without applying their own standards as universal judgments. By focusing on how a practice functions within a culture—its purposes, meanings, and social roles—students can uncover reasons behind behaviors that might seem unfamiliar or strange from outside. This mindset reduces bias and ethnocentrism in analysis, leading to more accurate and respectful insights when studying other cultures. It also clarifies that acknowledging different ways of life doesn’t mean approving every practice, but rather understanding them on their own terms.