Final answer:
Cultural relativism is the view that moral norms vary among cultures and are valid within their societal context, while ethical subjectivism holds that moral judgments are based on individual opinions with no objective moral truths. Cultural relativism comes from anthropology, and ethical subjectivism emphasizes personal belief systems over societal norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between cultural relativism and ethical subjectivism lies in the frameworks used to assess moral beliefs and behaviors. Cultural relativism acknowledges the diversity in moral practices across different societies, affirming that moral norms vary among cultures and that each culture's morals are valid within that particular society. This perspective originates from the field of anthropology and maintains that one should study and understand cultural practices without ethnocentric judgments, in line with evidence gathered by cultural anthropologists. In contrast, ethical subjectivism posits that moral judgments are based on individual feelings and opinions, with no objective moral truths extending beyond personal preferences or beliefs. In this view, what is 'right' or 'wrong' depends entirely on the individual, thus suggesting that individuals can create their own moral frameworks regardless of social or cultural norms.
For instance, while cultural relativism might study controversial topics such as female genital mutilation in certain cultures without immediate judgment and seek to understand its cultural context, ethical subjectivism would allow each person to evaluate such practices based solely on personal moral convictions.
However, it's important to recognize that neither cultural relativism nor ethical subjectivism negates the possibility of dialogue, critique, and reform within a culture. As historical and cultural shifts have shown, criticism of prevailing moral views by minorities has led to significant societal changes, complicating the notion of fixed or unassailable cultural norms. Additionally, philosophers continue to seek alternatives to these two approaches, aiming for moral frameworks that acknowledge diversity without succumbing to absolutism or unbridled relativism.