Universalism is a philosophical concept in which the validity of any claim is applicable to all people and cultures without exception (Rohr, 2019). This concept, which dates back to classical antiquity, has been a major influence in modern day ethical theories and moral reasoning. It is based on the notion that certain moral values, such as justice, equality, and human rights, are universal and should be respected by all societies (Rohr, 2019).
Universalism is often contrasted with relativism, which holds that moral values are subjective and vary from culture to culture (Rohr, 2019). Universalism has been criticized for its potential to ignore or override cultural differences and local context (Gaus, 2014). Nevertheless, the idea of universalism has been extremely influential in the development of legal systems and international agreements, such as the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights (UN, 1948).
Universalism is often used in ethical theories to justify certain moral claims and actions. For example, utilitarianism is a type of ethical theory that seeks to maximize the overall happiness of all people, regardless of their cultural background (Mill, 1861). Likewise, a Kantian approach to moral reasoning emphasizes the absolute value of universal moral principles, such as respect for autonomy and the prohibition of murder (Kant, 1785).
In addition to ethical theory, universalism is also relevant to the social sciences. Many social scientists argue that universal values, such as human rights, are essential for the development of a peaceful, just, and prosperous global society (Beitz, 2009). Similarly, some scholars have argued that universal values can be used to bridge cultural divides and promote global understanding (Risse, 2004).
Overall, universalism is an important philosophical concept with wide-ranging implications for ethical theory and the social sciences. Although it has been criticized for its potential to ignore or override cultural differences, it is nevertheless an influential and enduring idea that has shaped modern thought and international agreements.
References
Beitz, C. (2009). The Idea of Human Rights. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Gaus, G. (2014). The Order of Public Reason: A Theory of Freedom and Morality in a Diverse and Bounded World. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Kant, I. (1785). Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals. Trans. Mary Gregor. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Mill, J. S. (1861). Utilitarianism. London: Longmans, Green & Co.
Risse, M. (2004). Transnational Governance and Human Rights. Human Rights Quarterly, 26(4), 985-1012.
Rohr, J. (2019). Universalism. In E. N. Zalta (Ed.), The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/universalism/