A U.S. sociologist receives a grant to study racial and religious prejudice among the people of Southeast Asia. The sociologist
makes a serious and unbiased effort to evaluate the norms, values, and customs of these groups in light of the distinctive cultures of which they are a part. This is an example of:
A. xenocentrism.
B. ethnocentrism.
C. cultural relativism.
D. cultural deconstruction.
The concept of cultural relativism was developed by Franz Boas in the first quarter of the 20th century. Cultural relativism refers to understanding the culture of other persons by relying on his concept of culture instead of following own perception. It states that no culture is superior to others and they are relative in their political, ethical and religious beliefs according to the cultural environment.
