A Collision of Cultures

Are the ways of one society superior, or more morally correct, than another? Who is to decide such things? These are among the issues are presented by James Rachels in The Challenge of Cultural Relativism. In his essay, Rachels ultimately rejects the theory of cultural relativism, that there is no absolute standard of right or wrong outside of societal constructs. However, in his repudiation of the theory, he commends it for its mandate that society keep an open mind to the views of others, and avoid instantly rejecting outside paradigms that contrast with ours.

This issue most notably presents itself in the novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe. In the story, a tale of cultural decimation unfolds when new European arrivals lead to the deterioration of the Igbo tribe. Achebe skillfully depicts the disastrous results ensuing from the juxtaposition of two opposing cultures. After reading the Rachels' essay, it is easy to see how the theory of Cultural Relativism could have helped prevent the destruction of Igbo society. Even if the theory was not embraced in its entirety, it could have engendered a respect for the indigenous peoples of African that the majority of the Europeans in the novel did not have.

We see the fallacious idea that one group’s beliefs, background, or way of life is superior to another even in the subcultures observed throughout the United States. Whatever your side on the issue, it is clear that the issues in Ferguson, Missouri, are being exacerbated by racial tensions and misunderstandings. These disagreements have lead to resentment, giving way to full out hatred, and exploding in violence. 

History shows us that the notion of cultural superiority has led to the downfall of many a society. Instead of responding to cultural differences with hate and violence, we should remember to keep our minds open and accepting, seeing diverse views for what they are: new (and not inherently incorrect) methods of perceiving the world. It takes a truly intelligent person to recognize that their perspective is not the be-all end-all authoritative paradigm on a subject. We have so much to learn from other cultures, and we should embrace them for all they offer instead of rejecting them in bigotry.