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Relativism
  • Level Professional
  • Duration 11 hours
  • Course by University of California, Irvine
  • Offered by

About

Relativism is an ancient philosophical doctrine which has recurred time and again in the history of philosophy. It has also transcended the boundaries of that discipline, for it has shaped much of the methodology in anthropology and sociology, as well as in critical theory and literary studies. While often advocated for its supposed tolerance of differences, relativism has profound consequences for how we think of reality, for the possibility of knowledge, both in the factual and in the moral domain, and may engender the practice of double standard. If a wind is hot for me and cold for you and none of us is at fault, does this mean that reality is always perspectival, or that it admits of contradictory descriptions? If a belief turns out to be justified when evaluated within a certain epistemic system (such as religion, for instance), while it turns out to be unjustified if assessed from within a different one (science, say), does relativism undermine the very possibility of knowledge? If an action can be morally permissible within an ethical system and not so within a different one, does that challenge the idea that there are moral truths and moral progress? These are some of the questions we will engage in during the course, while considering examples taken from the history of science, such as the Bellarmine-Galileo dispute, and from everyday life. This course is aimed at anyone who is interested in learning more about philosophy, along with those who are looking for strategies to combat extremism in their communities. Using these approaches, no matter what your skill levels in topics you would like to master, you can change your thinking and change your life. In this course, learners will: Explore the concept of Relativism Discuss the role of Relativism in contemporary society Identify common responses to Relativism Compare/Contrast various forms of Relativism Recognize how epistemic relativism can be used to explain important events in the history of science and crucial discoveries in anthropology Create a presentation with your personal perspective on one of the forms of relativism

Modules

Introduction to Relativism

    • 2 Videos
    • 1 Readings
    • 1 Discussion
    • 1 Assignment
Show info about module content

1 Assignment

  • Introduction to Relativism

1 Discussions

  • Share Your Perspective & Experiences

2 Videos

  • Introduction to Relativism
  • Panel Discussion

1 Readings

  • The What and Why of Relativism

Alethic Relativism

    • 1 Videos
    • 1 Readings
    • 1 Discussion
    • 1 Assignment
Show info about module content

1 Assignment

  • Alethic Relativism

1 Discussions

  • Contemporary Alethic Relativism

1 Videos

  • Alethic Relativism

1 Readings

  • Alethic Relativism: Relativising truth

Epistemic Relativism

    • 1 Videos
    • 1 Readings
    • 1 Discussion
    • 1 Assignment
Show info about module content

1 Assignment

  • Epistemic Relativism

1 Discussions

  • Sharing Your Experiences

1 Videos

  • Epistemic Relativism

1 Readings

  • Epistemic Relativism: Relativising Knowledge and Justification

Moral Relativism

    • 1 Videos
    • 2 Readings
    • 1 Discussion
    • 1 PeerReview
    • 1 Assignment
Show info about module content

1 Assignment

  • Moral Relativism

1 Peer Review

  • Share Your Perspective on Relativism

1 Discussions

  • Motivating Relativism

1 Videos

  • Moral Relativism

2 Readings

  • Ethical Relativism: Relativizing Morals
  • Epilogue

Auto Summary

Dive into the intriguing world of philosophy with the course on "Relativism" in the domain of Health & Fitness. This course presents an in-depth exploration of the ancient philosophical doctrine of relativism, which has significantly influenced fields like anthropology, sociology, critical theory, and literary studies. Guided by expert instructors from Coursera, learners will delve into how relativism impacts our understanding of reality, knowledge, and morality. Through this engaging course, participants will tackle thought-provoking questions about the nature of reality and the possibility of knowledge across different epistemic systems. Learners will examine historical examples, such as the famous Bellarmine-Galileo dispute, and apply relativistic concepts to contemporary societal issues and everyday life scenarios. Key Highlights: - Understand and explore the foundational concept of Relativism - Discuss its implications in modern society - Analyze common responses and various forms of Relativism - Investigate how epistemic relativism has shaped historical scientific events and anthropological discoveries - Develop and present your own perspective on one form of relativism This professional-level course spans 660 minutes and is ideal for individuals interested in philosophy or those seeking strategies to address extremism within their communities. With flexible subscription options including Starter and Professional, you can deepen your philosophical understanding and apply these insights to transform your thinking and your life. Embrace the challenge and join us in dissecting the multifaceted nature of relativism.

Annalisa Coliva
Instructor

Annalisa Coliva