Absolutism

📖 Definition of Absolutism in Philosophy

Absolutism refers to the belief that certain truths, principles, or values are absolute—unchanging, universal, and valid regardless of context, culture, or circumstance. It stands in contrast to relativism, which holds that truth and morality depend on perspective or situation.

🧠 Key Dimensions

• Moral Absolutism – The view that some actions are intrinsically right or wrong, independent of outcomes or cultural norms. Example: lying is always wrong, no matter the situation.
• Epistemological Absolutism – The idea that knowledge can be certain and objective, not relative to individual viewpoints.
• Political Absolutism – A doctrine in political philosophy where a ruler holds absolute, unchecked power (often associated with monarchies like Louis XIV of France).

⚖️ Contrast with Relativism

• Absolutism: “There are universal moral laws that apply to everyone.”
• Relativism: “Morality depends on culture, context, or personal perspective.”

🌟 Example in Ethics

Immanuel Kant’s categorical imperative is often seen as a form of moral absolutism, since it requires that moral rules apply universally without exception.