Britannica
Sources used in this answer
What kinds of relativism are associated with postmodern philosophy?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Postmodernism
French philosopher and historian Michel Foucault, 1979.
Postmodern philosophy is frequently associated with three primary forms of relativism, though it is important to note that some postmodernists reject this label. These forms include:1
- Metaphysical relativism: The denial that there are objective aspects of reality.1
- Epistemological relativism: The denial that objective knowledge or certainty is possible, asserting instead that knowledge is constructed by discourses.1
- Ethical relativism: The denial of objective or absolute moral values, suggesting that values are also products of discourse.1
Postmodernists argue that because reality, knowledge, and values are constructed through discourse, no single perspective—such as the Enlightenment-era discourse of modern science—holds a superior claim to truth over alternatives. Instead, they contend that prevailing discourses often reflect the interests and power dynamics of dominant groups. By challenging the perceived hegemony of these established systems, postmodernists aim to validate the perspectives of non-elite groups, a stance that became central to the development of identity politics.1