Female Genital Mutilation Analysis

Female Genital Mutilation in Cultures The traditional and cultural practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) is slowly and increasingly becoming a controversial debate around the world. This dispute involves the violation of the human rights of girls and women as well as deals with its cultural norms and the severe health complications it oftentimes causes. The author, Martha Nussbaum, from the book, Sex & Social Justice, argues and criticizes against the tradition of female “circumcision”, in her chapter, “Judging Other Cultures: The Case of Genital Mutilation”. Moreover, in this essay, I will argue that anyone is allowed to criticize as well as is justified to interfere in practices that are part of cultural traditions. Therefore, I
Additionally, Nussbaum finds the strongest argument in support of FGM to be cultural continuity, considering that communities are able to grow through the initiation rituals and “a gradual process of education and persuasion” should be granted, instead of criminalizing the tradition. Consequently, it has been shown that over the years, people begin to oppose and break away from traditions, however according to the author, “the practice is kept alive by the excisers themselves” due to the fact that priestesses, (the women who perform the act), are provided financial security with sizable incomes and a reputation of significant influence. It is evident that in order to preserve their own personal interest and gain, priestesses will prevent members of the community from defying any changes from occurring (Nussbaum
I further think that the practice of female genital mutilation should be a criminalized and a prohibited procedure regardless of whether it has been a part of a tradition and/or a ritual. This procedure does not serve any health benefits purposes and is a form of torture that is absolutely unnecessary. FGM not only contributes to unpleasant and painful suffering but it also diminishes women’s empowerment, leaving them to feel vulnerable, trapped and powerless. One of the main arguments opposing FGM that Nussbaum maintains is the lack of consent being given from young girls and women. This resistance is in my opinion one of the leading reasons as to why this practice should be eradicated. I additionally think that even if FGM was permitted and available to a woman, who was of a legal age of consent and who agreed to such operation, then that operation should not be available to her, unless it is desperately needed due to a type of disease or other types serious of injuries etc. Nonetheless, this practice is only causing a considerable amount of harm and damage, not to mention the physical, mental and physical impacts, thus inflicting long lasting effects as an end result. Hence, it is why no individual should legitimately consent to such