1. idea that all things are relative or subjective. That, to understand something, you must understand its context
2. shorthand for moral relativism.
3. absolute relativism

• Argument against multiculturalism.
• The straw man thrown up in a false dichotomy/slippery slope defense of objectivism.

Usually carries negative connotations, as it's often done wrong. In knee-jerk relativism, there is a backlash against judgment. Some people feel that, between relativism, mechanistic ethics, and corporatism, why western culture is going to hell in a handbasket.

While relativism seems to be a crutch for weasely rationalizations, it is nevertheless a valid provisional step towards developing a balanced view of the world.