What is Cultural Relativism and How Can It Help Us Make The Most of Our Travels

May 24, 2024
-
2min 31sec
by
Lukene Sotomayor
Surf Photographer

Have you ever heard about cultural relativism? Anthropologist Franz Boas proposes that there is no universal standard for measuring all cultures. Cultural relativism means that what is seen as "normal" for some people most likely won't be "normal" for others. A straightforward example is that in the Western world, we find it normal to use toilet paper when we go to the bathroom, but in Asia, bidets are commonly used. When we are from one culture visiting another, we might find what we are used to strange. 

When we encounter cultural differences, it's crucial not to judge them as 'wrong' or 'abnormal.' Instead, we should see them as fascinating aspects of a different culture. This is where cultural relativism comes in. It's a mindset that allows us to explore diverse cultures with an open mind, appreciating their unique traditions, beliefs, and values. By adopting cultural relativism, we can truly immerse ourselves in these cultures and make our travels more enriching. 

Cultural relativism encourages us to celebrate our cultures' differences and emphasizes cultural diversity's importance. Practicing cultural relativism allows us to become more tolerant of one another and helps us expand our worldviews. It is not because we were born with a particular culture; it means anything foreign to us is strange and, therefore, wrong. This concept helps us respect local cultures and celebrate them, and it allows us to get immersed in them so we can make the most out of our adventures. 

Travelling with an open mind to different worlds makes us more adaptable and helps us to ease the cultural shocks we might experience when we travel abroad. With an attitude of this kind, we question our beliefs and traditions. This opportunity is unique when we take our adventures as life lessons and seek to grow as individuals from a vast world. 

Cheers to different cultures and unity among us! 

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