Only the truly privileged can be cultural relativists

The article by Josephine Bartosch discusses the concept of cultural relativism, arguing that it is a privilege that can only be afforded by those in advanced, industrialized societies. Bartosch reflects on her childhood fascination with the practice of foot binding in China, contrasting it with contemporary museum practices that remove exhibits deemed problematic. She critiques the curators' decisions to sanitize history, suggesting that such actions stem from a misguided sense of moral superiority. The author asserts that while the Victorians had their flaws, their contributions to science and culture have benefited humanity more than the practices of some indigenous cultures. Bartosch argues that judging cultures is not inherently racist, and she questions whether modern curators would consider the Taliban's treatment of women as equal to Western standards. Ultimately, she posits that acknowledging the moral advancements of contemporary society is essential, and that cultural relativism can obscure the realities of oppression faced by individuals in less progressive cultures.

- Cultural relativism is seen as a privilege of those in advanced societies.

- The removal of controversial museum exhibits is critiqued as a form of cultural sanitization.

- The author argues that judging cultures is not inherently racist and can highlight moral advancements.

- Bartosch emphasizes the benefits of Victorian contributions to modern society.

- The article questions the moral equivalence of different cultural practices, particularly regarding women's rights.