Introduction

For a long time, the nature of morality has been a subject of intense debate among philosophers and scholars. Traditionally, one might classify morality as either subjective or objective. However, this article argues that morality is neither purely subjective nor objective; rather, it is relative, influenced by cultural and individual perspectives.

The Argument Against Subjectivity and Objectivity

The statement 'Morality is neither subjective nor objective—it is relative' is a fundamental insight. Let us examine why the classification of moral statements as subjective or objective is flawed. When we say 'Thou shalt not kill because God has said so,' we are grounding our moral judgment in a specific religious belief. But why should followers of this belief obey divine commandments? This leads us to another level of reasoning—a simplistic one might argue that God's commands are in our best interest, or that disobeying them will result in punishment. However, this reasoning itself is not ultimate. Why should death in hell be undesirable? Why should we want to avoid pain?

Relational Nature of Morality

Morality is relational. It is not an absolute truth that stands alone. Rather, it is based on a series of arguments and reasons that relate to one another. One argument may be supported by another, creating a complex web of reasoning that does not necessarily culminate in an ultimate, unchallengeable reason.

Historical Perspectives on Subjectivity and Objectivity

Let us explore the terms 'subjective' and 'objective' in more depth. We speak of an objective statement when it is so certain and universally accepted that everyone must adhere to it. For example, a visual representation can be seen as objective when it helps us precisely identify an object. However, even these 'objective' statements can be contextually influenced. A photographic representation might seem objective, but it is still a creation of human eyes and technology, influenced by the time when it was made.

Subjectivity: A Cultural Construction

Subjectivity is when an individual claims their view as personal truth, something they believe but do not necessarily expect others to share. The term 'subjective' carries cultural weight. It often serves to legitimize a particular viewpoint and redirect debates towards more specific aspects, such as the representation of a view and the role of its users. This cultural context is crucial to understanding how we use the terms 'subjective' and 'objective.'

Cultural History of Objectivity: A Deeper Dive

To gain a deeper insight into the cultural history of objectivity, one might study works like Lorraine J. Daston and Peter Galison's Objectivity. Their book offers a comprehensive exploration of how our views of objectivity have evolved over time, illustrating that even photographic representations can be cultural artifacts of their time.

Further Reading for Relativity

For a more philosophical understanding of relativity in moral judgments, studying Auguste Comte might be beneficial. Comte's ideas can provide a deeper exploration of how morality is influenced by cultural and individual perspectives.

Conclusion

From the annals of philosophy to the examination of cultural constructs, the nature of morality is complex and cannot be solely categorized as subjective or objective. It is a dynamic, relative concept that is shaped by our cultural and personal beliefs. By understanding the nuanced nature of morality, we can engage in more meaningful and empathetic dialogues about ethical issues.