[MD] The Relativist's journey

[MarshaV]

Hello Arlo,  

On Nov 23, 2011, at 9:35 AM, Arlo Bensinger wrote:

> [Steve to Marsha]
> Why would an MOQer even want to wield an SOM-laden term like "relativism"? It is half of the old SOM Platypus, relativism/absolutism. It is a term based on an SOM premise that we deny. It is just another version of the wrong-headed question, "is the Quality in the subject or in the object?"
> 
> [Arlo]
> I was thinking the same thing. From my perspective, it seems some are bending over backwards to hang on to the term "relativism", going so far as to select very narrow, very indiscriminate definitions just to allow the word into the conversation, almost as if its sacrosanct. Consider how much hostility and energy is given to this every single day in this forum, over whether or not a certain 'word', even redefined and reconceptualized, MUST be part of the MOQ's lexicon.

Marsha: 
And I might think some are bending over backwards, due to a cultural and personal bias, to reject a term, in its epistemological connotation, that is in common use within an Eastern explanation . Including the term help establish the bridge between East and West.  imho.  


> 
> [Steve]
> ...was becoming a serious problem in the multi-culty 90's (when Lila came out), but morally paralyzed relativists are getting harder and harder to find (thank goodness ...
> 
> [Arlo]
> Unfortunately, the pendulum is swinging back to other end of your SOM platypus, absolutism, shown as unilateral exceptionalism, patriotism and the view that "my" culture/society/ideas/choices/lifestyle is unquestionably, undeniably, absolutely superior to everyone else everywhere in the world. If we are abandoning "multi-culturalism", it is not because we are moving towards appraising contexts and differing ways of life on a scale betterness, we are simply saying "we" are in every possible way better than everyone else. And I'm sorry if I don't think that's a good thing.
> 
> When I lived in Chicago, I found the ethnic/cultural adherences both fascinating and intellectually stimulating. Now back in central Pennsylvania where, for all extent and purposes, there is nothing but cultural homogeny, I am convinced that demanding everyone act/think/talk/look/behave like 'everyone else' (whatever that means) is even more dangerous and stagnating than the diversity that some are so appalled to see.


 
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