Morality is subjective and relative to cultural beliefs from "summary" of A Treatise of Human Nature by David Hume
In considering the nature of morality, we must acknowledge that it is not a fixed and universal standard that applies uniformly across all societies. Rather, morality is contingent upon the beliefs and customs of a particular culture. What one society deems as morally acceptable may be viewed quite differently in another culture. This variability in moral standards underscores the subjective nature of morality, as it is shaped by the cultural context in which it exists. Cultural beliefs play a significant role in determining what is considered right or wrong within a society. These beliefs are deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of a community and serve as the foundation for moral judgments and ethical principles. As such, what is considered morally permissible in one culture may be condemned as immoral in another, reflecting the relative nature of morality. The diversity of moral beliefs and practices across different cultures highlights the fluid and flexible nature of morality. It is not a fixed set of rules that are immutable and eternal, but rather a dynamic and evolving concept that is influenced by the cultural norms and values of a given society. This relativity in moral standards challenges the notion of a universal morality that applies universally to all human beings. The subjective and relative nature of morality does not imply that all moral beliefs are equally valid or justifiable. Rather, it recognizes that moral judgments are contingent upon the specific cultural context in which they arise. While there may be certain commonalities in moral principles across cultures, such as prohibitions against murder or theft, the specific application of these principles may vary depending on the cultural beliefs and practices of a society.- The concept of morality as subjective and relative to cultural beliefs underscores the complexity and diversity of moral systems across different societies. By recognizing the influence of cultural context on moral judgments, we can gain a deeper understanding of the intricate and nuanced nature of morality as a human phenomenon.
