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What is moral absolutism and how does it apply to modern day society?

Anice Habbeshaw

Hey there,

Moral absolutism is a theory that suggests that certain actions are right or wrong in themselves, universally and without exception. It maintains that moral truths are objective and do not depend on the views of individuals or cultures. In other words, there are moral principles that apply to everyone, everywhere, at all times, and they cannot be modified by the circumstances.

One major implication of moral absolutism is that moral relativism, which states that morality is subjective and varies by culture and time period, is false. Absolutists argue that there are moral laws that are fixed and immutable, and that any deviation from them is morally wrong.

Nowadays, moral absolutism is often associated with religious or conservative views, and it can be seen as inflexible or dogmatic by some. Critics argue that absolutism oversimplifies moral dilemmas, ignores the complexities of human nature, and can lead to intolerance and oppression. However, defenders of this approach argue that it provides a clear and unambiguous moral framework, and that it upholds the dignity and value of human life.

In modern-day society, moral absolutism can be observed in a variety of fields, such as politics, ethics, and law. For instance, some politicians may argue that certain policies are inherently right or wrong, regardless of the circumstances or possible consequences. Ethical codes for professionals like doctors or lawyers may impose absolute duties, such as preserving confidentiality or avoiding conflicts of interest. And in legal systems, there are laws that forbid certain actions in all cases, such as murder, theft, or perjury, and that apply to all individuals, regardless of their social or cultural background.

However, moral absolutism also faces challenges in contemporary society, where cultural diversity, individual autonomy, and systemic injustices are prominent. For instance, some people may argue that moral progress requires revising or expanding moral principles to adapt them to changing realities, such as environmental degradation or human rights violations. Others may claim that there are situations where the absolute prohibition of certain actions may not be feasible or desirable, such as in cases of self-defense or civil disobedience.

In conclusion, moral absolutism is a controversial and debated theory that asserts the existence of objective and universal moral principles that are not relative to individuals or cultures. While it can provide a clear and coherent framework for ethical decision-making, it can also be criticized for oversimplifying moral complexity and promoting intolerance. Whether moral absolutism is applicable or useful in modern-day society depends on the context and the values, beliefs, and goals of each individual.