Oh, the far-reaching Joni Discussion List! I have to step in here with a
comment regarding the comparison of male and female circumcision.
It's true that male circumcision is largely an unnecessary procedure, often
performed without anaesthetic, and may produce some amount of local
insensitivity but I think it is important for people to realize the
difference in *degree* between male and female genital mutilation. The two
operations are so far apart in severity that it is like comparing caning to
flogging around the fleet. As well, female genital mutilation is most often
performed for the benefit of the future husband of the girl being mutilated.
It is intended to make her more "attractive" and keep her faithful, either
by making sexual activity unpleasant or even impossible without further
surgical procedures.
If anyone is interested in further reading go to
http://www.fgmnetwork.org/intro/fgmintro.html
Ranger Rick
