Final answer:
Ruth Benedict implies that human nature is largely affected by cultural factors, in line with Normative Ethical Relativism, which states that morality varies across different cultures. Although there may be some universal moral truths, human nature and ethics are primarily shaped by social influences according to her view.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ruth Benedict seems to imply that human nature is culturally derived. This perspective aligns with the theory of Normative Ethical Relativism, which posits that different cultures have their own unique ethical standards, and that these standards are deemed correct within those cultural contexts. Hence, there can be a vast diversity of moral viewpoints across various societies. In contrast to ethical frameworks that rely on natural law or divine command, Benedict's view suggests that our ethical orientation is shaped by our societal environment, including customs, practices, and social norms. This should not be confused with the idea that there is a fixed human nature that dictates our behavior in the same way that an animal's nature might. Rather, since much of human behaviour is shaped by external factors, human nature, and consequently our morality, can vary widely based on cultural influences.
Further reflecting on moral principles across cultures, there may be some common understandings, such as the agreement that unjustified killing is wrong, despite different interpretations of what justifies such an act. Thus, while Benedict would likely assert that human nature is primarily formed by cultural conditions, this does not preclude certain universal ethical truths from emerging through a collective societal consensus.