Final answer:
Cultural relativism, rooted in anthropology and ethics, acknowledges the diversity of moral systems across cultures and does not imply moral anarchy. Normative ethical relativism, part of cultural relativism, is criticized for its inability to explain minority-led moral reforms. Philosophers and anthropologists seek a balance between absolute moral values and cultural specificity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cultural relativism is a concept in ethics and anthropology which posits that moral systems vary across cultures and that these differing systems are all equally valid. Among moral naturalists and moral relativists, cultural relativism acknowledges the fact that mores, customs, and ethical principles vary significantly from one culture to another. Yet, it should not be confused with a laissez-faire attitude where anything goes; rather, it is considered a stepping stone towards understanding and respecting cross-cultural differences.
Despite the recognition of cultural diversity, normative ethical relativism, a theory within cultural relativism, faces criticism. One such criticism is its incapacity to account for the moral criticisms and reforms initiated by the minority in any society since, according to this theory, the majority's views are always the correct view. However, critics argue there are many historical instances where minority views have led to positive moral changes that normative ethical relativism cannot explain.
Anthropologists and philosophers have long sought for a third alternative to the polar views of moral absolutism and cultural relativism. Although moral practices differ around the world, moral realism suggests that there are still objective moral values that can be derived from nature, hinting at potential common ground among diverse moral systems.
In essence, cultural relativism represents an attempt to approach ethical differences with an open mind and understanding before reaching any judgments, as expressed in Michael Brown's concept of cultural relativism 2.0.