Cultural Relativism: Is there a 'Right' in Rights?

Journey to Transformation

In this episode of Journey to Transformation, Lauren and Teia take on the concept of cultural relativism and its entanglement with ethical conflicts in international development.

Picture a religious holiday dinner – your family tradition might dictate turkey, while another household might insist on pancakes and spam. Can one impose their tradition onto another? The concept of cultural relativism argues no, a sentiment we extend into the diverse world of humanitarian and international development.

Further, we discuss the challenge of non-governmental organisations that are committed to inclusivity and gender equality operating in places where these principles are not a given. Can these organisations impose their viewpoints, or is this a dangerous dance with cultural colonisation? We examine the friction between respect for cultural norms and the push for universal human rights and social change, revealing the inherent complexities and dilemmas. What is our role in places where social norms contradict our deeply held beliefs about human rights and equality? Are we imposing our beliefs, or are we advocating for universal human rights?

Join us as we grapple with these profound ethical dilemmas, spilling the tea on the contentious intersection of cultural relativism, human rights, and the quest for social change. We promise no easy answers but a thought-provoking journey you wouldn't want to miss.

Trigger Warning: Lauren and Teia discuss instances of gender-based violence. This can be triggering and hard to hear. If you need support, these organisations can help:

https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/

https://www.traumasurvivorsnetwork.org/traumapedias/716

www.blackmindsmatteruk.com

www.rethink.org

www.mind.org.uk

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Edited by Teia Rogers

Music by Praz Khanal

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