Which philosophical view posits that truth is subjective and varies by individual?

Which philosophical view posits that truth is subjective and varies by individual?

• A. Realism
• B. Relativism
• C. Pragmatism
• D. Existentialism

Answer: (B)

Relativism is the philosophical view that asserts truth is not absolute but rather varies based on individual perspectives and contexts. This means that what one person considers true may not hold the same validity for another, including varying beliefs, experiences, and cultural backgrounds that shape understanding. Relativism challenges the idea of universal truths, emphasizing that knowledge and morality are often contingent upon cultural or personal circumstances. In contrast, realism posits that there are objective truths that exist independently of individual beliefs. Pragmatism focuses on the practical consequences and applications of beliefs rather than their absolute truth, suggesting that the merit of an idea is based more on its usefulness than on its inherent truth. Existentialism, while addressing the individual's experience and the search for meaning, does not necessarily claim that truth is subjective in a relativistic sense but rather emphasizes personal freedom and choice within a framework of individual existence. Thus, relativism accurately captures the essence of truth as being shaped by personal and contextual factors, making it the correct choice.

Relativism is the philosophical view that asserts truth is not absolute but rather varies based on individual perspectives and contexts. This means that what one person considers true may not hold the same validity for another, including varying beliefs, experiences, and cultural backgrounds that shape understanding. Relativism challenges the idea of universal truths, emphasizing that knowledge and morality are often contingent upon cultural or personal circumstances.

In contrast, realism posits that there are objective truths that exist independently of individual beliefs. Pragmatism focuses on the practical consequences and applications of beliefs rather than their absolute truth, suggesting that the merit of an idea is based more on its usefulness than on its inherent truth. Existentialism, while addressing the individual's experience and the search for meaning, does not necessarily claim that truth is subjective in a relativistic sense but rather emphasizes personal freedom and choice within a framework of individual existence. Thus, relativism accurately captures the essence of truth as being shaped by personal and contextual factors, making it the correct choice.