Do we have the right to change other cultures? Must people jump to the conclusion of "no"--it is their traditions, rituals, and other practices that are important to them. If they want to shun what we consider to be modern, it is a choice that is up to them, and it does not affect us. However, where the line seems to become blurred is with FGM (female genital mutilation) and other similar practices. FGM is the removal of some or all of a female's genitalia. This is done so women do not receive any pleasure from sexual intercourse, and their only motivation to have sex is to reproduce. This occurs when the girl is very young (usually right after birth up to 15 years old), and the procedure is usually performed without any anesthetics. Sometimes, even corrosive substances are poured into the surgical area to tighten it. Should we allow the torture of nearly 85% of women in these countries simply because of a tradition? What are your thoughts?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Female_genital_mutilation
--Bonnie Noel
Ah, an excellent point to bring up. Some customs are shocking - at that point, cultural relativism can become, well, relative, and we are much more likely to make value-based judgements again.
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