FGM

Female Genital Mutilation is an issue discussed at length by Martha Nussbaum. I agree with many of the issues that Nussbaum draws upon in her discussion of this cultural phenomenon, and the ways in which she views the practice. After reading Nussbaums article, titled "Judging Other Cultures: The Case of Female Genital Mutilation," I have come to realize the reality of the ways in which Westerners view non-Western societies practices as being wrong, and if not for the help of the opinion of the Westerner, it may be the case that these wrongful practices would continue to take place. 

Nussbaum believes that it is wrong to criticize another culture without criticizing the wrong doings in one's own culture. American's display the sense of self-criticism in terms of body image. There are many criticisms from outsiders to the ways in which Westerners view FGM practices. Nussbaum agrees with the first criticism, but disagrees with the next three common criticisms. I agree with her analysis of these criticisms, especially in reference to the fact that many of them compare FGM to American practices. I do not think that it is the case that FGM can be compared to Western practices such as body image or dieting. These practices take place by choice. It is not often that an American woman is physically forced into dieting or plastic surgery, etc. While it is the case that the media does persuade the public to look a particular way, I do not believe that the media is FORCING women to do these things. Contrary to this, FGM is a practice of force. Mothers, grandmothers, and fathers, those who have power and strength in the society, and elders, are forcing the practices of FGM on the young girls of their communities, making it nearly impossible for the to refuse the phenomenon of their culture.