Absolutism and Relativism: Practical Implications for Philosophical Counseling

This paper presents the contrast of two traditions within philosophy, the absolutist and relativists positions in relation to psychological counseling. It is argued that the problems presented to philosophical counseling in working out a suitable method cannot be divorced from the larger debates within philosophy. The techniques and assumptions of these two traditions will lead counselors and clients in very different directions and provide very different answers to the kinds of questions engaged.