Final answer:
Ruth Benedict states that 'normal' is contingent upon cultural norms, which is true. Normative Ethical Relativism emphasizes that each culture determines its own moral standards, and power dynamics can influence these norms. Cultural relativism and symbolic interactions also affect our perception of normality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ruth Benedict posits that what is considered normal is highly subjective and is dictated by the cultural norms of a particular society. This statement is true. According to the theory of Normative Ethical Relativism, a culture's predominant view on ethics and morality is inherently correct within that specific culture simply because it is the predominant view. However, Benedict has been critiqued for potentially oversimplifying cultures by not accounting for their intrinsic diversity and complexity. It's important to understand that every culture includes multiple viewpoints, often leading to sociocultural conflicts and changes over time. The influence of power dynamics on what is considered normal is also significant, as those in power within a culture can impose their views on others.
Cultural relativism acknowledges the diversity across global cultures, including distinct practices, values, and beliefs that are transmitted intergenerationally. Symbols and everyday interactions further construct our perception of reality, highlighting how cultural context and language interpretation can shape our understanding of what is deemed normal.