Question

Tolerance for other cultures and peoples is often considered an essential trait of Western Humanism, particularly in the contexts of Renaissance Humanism and Enlightenment humanism. The provided quotations reflect the inclusive and cosmopolitan spirit of this intellectual movement.

Montaigne's statement, Everyone calls barbarism that which is not of his use, suggests a recognition of cultural relativism and a plea for understanding beyond one's own cultural framework. His sentiment, I consider all men my compatriots, echoes the idea of universal kinship, emphasizing a shared humanity irrespective of cultural or national differences.

Erasmus, in expressing, I am a citizen of the world, known to all and to all a stranger, captures the cosmopolitan ideal of transcending parochial boundaries and recognizing a common global citizenship.

Pascal's observation, There are truths on this side of the Pyrénées which are falsehoods on the other, acknowledges cultural diversity and the subjective nature of truth, emphasizing the importance of appreciating different perspectives.

Voltaire's call, May all men remember that they are brothers! reflects a plea for fraternity and mutual understanding, advocating for a sense of common humanity that transcends cultural, religious, or national distinctions.

However, it is important to note that the tolerance advocated by Western Humanism has its limits. The Paradox of Tolerance, as articulated by Karl Popper, suggests that a tolerant society must be cautious about tolerating intolerance. When faced with cultures or ideologies that actively oppose the values integral to humanism, there is a point at which tolerance may need to be tempered. The paradox warns against unlimited tolerance, recognizing that an excessively tolerant society may risk its own destruction if it tolerates the intolerant.

In summary, Western Humanism, as exemplified by Renaissance and Enlightenment humanism, embraces the ideals of cultural tolerance, universal kinship, and global citizenship. However, it acknowledges the need to be vigilant against ideologies that undermine the very principles of tolerance and humanism. What is the central theme reflected in Montaigne's statement Everyone calls barbarism that which is not of his use?
a) Cultural relativism
b) Ethnocentrism
c) Nationalism
d) Cultural hegemony

Answer 1

Montaigne's statement reflects the theme of cultural relativism, recognizing the diversity of cultural norms and pleading for understanding across different cultural contexts. This aligns with Enlightenment values of tolerance and universal kinship, though Western Humanism also endorses the Paradox of Tolerance which suggests limits to tolerance for preserving a tolerant society.

Step-by-step explanation:

The central theme reflected in Montaigne's statement, "Everyone calls barbarism that which is not of his use", is cultural relativism. This theme emerges as Montaigne acknowledges that what is considered normal or civilized in one culture may be seen as barbaric in another, suggesting that such judgments are relative to the cultural context. Moreover, Montaigne's broader view, encapsulated in his idea of considering all men as compatriots, aligns with a cosmopolitan view of a shared humanity, transcending cultural and national boundaries.

While Renaissance and Enlightenment humanism emphasized these inclusive ideals, such as cultural tolerance and global citizenship, they also recognized the dangerous potential of extreme tolerance. This is highlighted by the Paradox of Tolerance, put forth by Karl Popper, which warns against tolerating intolerant ideologies at the risk of undermining tolerant societies. Thus, while advocating for cultural relativism and a sense of universal kinship, Western Humanism also maintains the principle that tolerance should have limits to preserve its very essence.