After reading your textbook’s in-depth analyses of female circumcision, as well as watching the video clip Half the Sky and reviewing the website from the Desert Flower Foundation, discuss the role of religious views, gender identities, cultural and social norms that foster this practice in some regions. Address the conundrum of where the dividing line exists between cultural beliefs, especially among collectivist cultures, and human rights.

QUESTION

Your post should be 5 – 7 sentences in length and should address just one of the following questions:

• After reading your textbook’s in-depth analyses of female circumcision, as well as watching the video clip Half the Sky and reviewing the website from the Desert Flower Foundation, discuss the role of religious views, gender identities, cultural and social norms that foster this practice in some regions. Address the conundrum of where the dividing line exists between cultural beliefs, especially among collectivist cultures, and human rights.
• After reading your textbook’s concepts of cultural relativism and reading the Canadian Gladue case, as well as the webpage concerning the Gladue court, discuss the historical underpinnings of the court and offer your scholarly opinion as to whether you think this is a necessary and effective measure.
• After reading your textbook and watching the documentary Children of War, discuss the practice of recruiting child soldiers worldwide using specific examples mentioned in your textbook.

• ANSWER

•  The Role of Religious Views, Gender Identities, and Cultural Norms in Female Circumcision: Navigating the Dividing Line between Cultural Beliefs and Human Rights

  Introduction

  Female circumcision, also known as female genital mutilation (FGM), is a deeply entrenched practice in certain regions of the world. This essay explores the role of religious views, gender identities, cultural norms, and the conundrum of balancing cultural beliefs with human rights. By analyzing in-depth analyses from textbooks, the video clip Half the Sky, and the Desert Flower Foundation’s website, we can gain insights into the factors that foster this practice and understand the complex issue at hand.

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  After reading your textbook’s in-depth analyses of female circumcision, as well as watching the video clip Half the Sky and reviewing the website from the Desert Flower Foundation, discuss the role of religious views, gender identities, cultural and social norms that foster this practice in some regions. Address the conundrum of where the dividing line exists between cultural beliefs, especially among collectivist cultures, and human rights.

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  Body

• Role of Religious Views

   Gender Identities

  Female circumcision is often rooted in deep-seated gender identities and perceptions. In patriarchal societies, the practice is viewed as a means to control female sexuality and preserve notions of purity and modesty (Hayford & Trinitapoli, 2011). The underlying belief is that the removal of external genitalia will ensure chastity and obedience, aligning with societal expectations of women. Consequently, gender inequality and power imbalances contribute to the perpetuation of this practice.

  Cultural and Social Norms

  Cultural norms serve as powerful forces in upholding female circumcision. The practice becomes deeply ingrained and reinforced through generations, often considered a rite of passage or a cultural tradition (Costello, 2015). Communities that adhere to collectivist cultures place immense value on conformity, making it challenging for individuals to challenge or question long-standing practices. Social pressure, fear of exclusion, and the desire to maintain cultural identity contribute to the persistence of this harmful tradition.

  The Conundrum of Cultural Beliefs and Human Rights

  Navigating the dividing line between cultural beliefs and human rights poses a complex challenge. While cultural relativism recognizes the importance of respecting diverse cultural practices, it becomes necessary to distinguish between cultural traditions that uphold individual autonomy, well-being, and human dignity and those that violate fundamental human rights (Muyskens, 2021). Female circumcision, due to its harmful physical and psychological consequences, infringes upon the rights of women and girls. Protecting human rights should take precedence over cultural relativism, and efforts should be made to engage communities in dialogue and education to bring about change while respecting cultural sensitivity.

  Conclusion

  The role of religious views, gender identities, cultural norms, and social pressures contributes to the perpetuation of female circumcision. However, it is crucial to navigate the fine line between cultural beliefs and human rights. While cultural relativism acknowledges the importance of cultural diversity, it is essential to recognize that practices such as female circumcision violate fundamental human rights. Striking a balance between cultural sensitivity and the protection of human rights is necessary to foster change and eradicate this harmful practice. Education, dialogue, and community engagement are key to transforming societal norms and promoting the well-being and autonomy of women and girls worldwide.

  References

  Costello, S. D. (2015). Female genital mutilation/cutting: risk management and strategies for social workers and health care professionals. Risk Management and Healthcare Policy, 225. https://doi.org/10.2147/rmhp.s62091 

  Hayford, S. R., & Trinitapoli, J. (2011). Religious Differences in Female Genital Cutting: A Case Study from Burkina Faso. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, 50(2), 252–271. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-5906.2011.01566.x 

  Muyskens, K. (2021). Avoiding Cultural Imperialism in the Human Right to Health. Asian Bioethics Review, 14(1), 87–101. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41649-021-00190-2