Relativist critics claim that universal conceptions of human rights “represent an attempt on the
part of Western states and societies to impose
For your essay, please write a short essay of approximately 1200 words on the question below.
Your essay is open book/open note and is based on course materials only. (That is, do not consult
any sources other than course materials.) Your essay should be based on your own reading and
thinking, and should cite course materials where relevant (e.g. DeLaet, lecture, Glendon).
Essay question
Relativist critics claim that universal conceptions of human rights “represent an attempt on the
part of Western states and societies to impose Western values on non-Western states and
societies” (DeLaet 46). Universalists, on the other hand, assert that “[t]o give up on the
existence of such [universal] principles is to give up on . . . the common humanity that makes it
possible for people of different cultures to deliberate about how we are to order our lives together
in an interdependent world” (Glendon 1176). With specific references to the DeLaet and
Glendon readings, critically assess the value of both relativist and universal perspectives on
human rights. Which perspective do you find most persuasive, and why?
Excellent essays should:
be based on course materials only, and cite these materials
put forward a persuasive argument for one perspective
include a definition of relativist and universalist perspectives
address strongest arguments for and critiques of each perspective
address what’s at stake in this debate (That is, why is this debate relevant/important,
according to DeLaet?)
be well structured (i.e. include an introduction, development of argument, acknowledge
counterarguments, and a conclusion)
be the product of your own reading and thinking (based on course materials only)
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Relativist critics claim that universal conceptions of human rights “represent an attempt on the part of Western states and societies to impose
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