Cultural relativism often provides a sound methodological basis for ethnographic research, but it can often cause serious ethical problems for the anthropologist. For example, how does one refrain from judging such cultural practices as infan?ticide, geronticide, or wife stealing?

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Cultural relativism emphasizes that all cultural practices should be understood within the context of their own culture, rather than being judged by outsider standards. While this approach can be important for accurate ethnographic research, there are cases where it can create ethical dilemmas for the anthropologist, such as encountering cultural practices that conflict with universal human rights or values. However, the general principle of cultural relativism still holds, and anthropologists must balance their ethical obligations with their commitment to understanding and documenting cultural diversity.

Cultural Relativism Often Provides a Sound Methodological Basis for Ethnographic