Civilization Quote by Shirin Ebadi
“I know of no civilization that tolerates or justifies violence, terrorism, or injustice. There is no civilization that justifies the killing of innocent people. Those who are invoking cultural relativism are really using that as an excuse for violating human rights and to put a cultural mask on the face of what they're doing.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Human rights conference, date unknown
She asserts no civilization justifies violence or terrorism, and cultural relativism is misused to excuse rights violations.
In simple terms: No culture truly accepts violence; relativism can hide abuses.
Key Takeaway
Reject cultural relativism as a shield for injustice.
Themes
human rights
violence
culture
Mood
determined
urgent
Type
advocational
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education
- advocacy
- media reporting
Key Concepts
ethical relativism
justice
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we expose hidden abuses?
- What alternatives to relativism exist?
A Different Perspective
Some societies claim cultural justification for harmful practices.
