Why might some argue that ethical standards in criminal justice are subjective?

The argument that ethical standards in criminal justice are subjective is often rooted in the idea that different cultures embrace varying definitions of what is considered ethical behavior. Societal norms, values, and beliefs play a significant role in shaping these ethical standards, leading to a diversity of opinions about right and wrong. For instance, a practice deemed ethical in one culture may be viewed as unacceptable in another, creating a spectrum of interpretations regarding justice and morality.

This cultural relativity highlights that ethics cannot be universally defined because they are influenced by historical, social, and cultural contexts. As a result, practitioners in the criminal justice field may approach ethical dilemmas differently depending on their backgrounds, leading to subjective interpretations of what constitutes ethical practice in various situations.