Discussion In Behs 220 Diversity Awareness You May Have Lear

Discussion 1in Behs 220 Diversity Awareness You May Have Learned Ab

In BEHS 220, a course focused on diversity awareness, we explore various ways of "being human" and examine the diverse cultural landscape of the United States. The U.S. is characterized by its multicultural makeup, where numerous groups with distinct cultural identities coexist within a broader societal fabric. Despite ongoing tensions related to race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, and age, the active public debate on diversity issues signifies some progress toward social awareness. Globally, however, many groups still face systemic oppression based on these very differences. This discussion involves analyzing key terminology related to diversity and cross-cultural relations, specifically focusing on cultural pluralism, multicultural societies, and cultural relativism, and applying these concepts to the controversial practice of female genital mutilation (FGM). The discussion aims to assess the cultural underpinnings of FGM, consider the perspectives of cultural relativists, explore the reconciliation of cultural practices with human rights, and examine the influence of globalization on cultural change.

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The practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) is a deeply rooted cultural tradition observed in several African, Middle Eastern, and some Asian communities. Its cultural basis often stems from beliefs in preserving virginity, ensuring marital fidelity, cultural identity, and social cohesion. In many societies where FGM is practiced, it is considered a rite of passage into womanhood, symbolizing purity and eligibility for marriage. These cultural norms are passed from generation to generation and are integral to community identity, often reinforced by social and religious beliefs. Understandably, from the perspective of these societies, FGM is not viewed as a harmful practice but rather as a vital part of their cultural heritage (Shell-Duncan, 2018). Consequently, the practice is often maintained through social pressures and a collective desire to uphold traditional values, often despite legal prohibitions or international advocacy against the procedure.

A cultural relativist would argue that FGM’s acceptability is contingent upon understanding it within the cultural context of the practicing community. From this viewpoint, behaviors and practices cannot be judged solely through external moral standards; instead, they must be understood according to the norms and values of that particular culture. Cultural relativists maintain that condemning FGM without considering its cultural significance constitutes cultural imperialism and a form of ethical imperialism, imposing Western standards on non-Western societies (Boddy, 2016). They might argue that efforts to eradicate FGM should be approached with cultural sensitivity and dialogue that respects cultural identities rather than solely invoking universal human rights principles.

Reconciling cultural relativism with the imperative of human rights presents a significant challenge. Human rights frameworks emphasize individual autonomy, bodily integrity, and the elimination of harmful cultural practices, which directly conflict with the collective, tradition-based rationale behind FGM. Advocates for human rights argue that practices causing physical and psychological harm should be universally condemned, regardless of cultural context (WHO, 2018). The key to reconciliation lies in engaging communities in dialogue to shift perceptions and practices while respecting cultural identities. Public health campaigns, education, and community involvement are vital strategies that promote change without disregarding cultural sensitivities. Emphasizing the health risks associated with FGM while respecting the community’s values and seeking community-led shifts can foster change without perpetuating cultural imperialism.

Globalization plays a complex role in transforming cultural practices like FGM. On one hand, increased access to information, international advocacy, and cross-cultural exchange expose communities practicing FGM to global debates on human rights and gender equality. This exposure can provoke internal conflicts and accelerate efforts to abandon harmful practices (Merry, 2017). Conversely, globalization can also reinforce resistance, as communities perceive external threats to their cultural sovereignty and respond with increased adherence to traditional norms as a form of cultural preservation. Moreover, migration and diaspora communities spread practices like FGM beyond their original cultural contexts, prompting international legal and social debates. Overall, globalization acts as both a catalyst for cultural change and a source of tension, complicating efforts to eliminate practices like FGM.

References

• Boddy, J. (2016). We've All Got to Try: Female Genital Cutting and Global Health Politics. University of Toronto Press.
• Merry, S. E. (2017). Human Rights and Gender Violence: Translating International Law into Practice. University of Pennsylvania Press.
• Shell-Duncan, B. (2018). Female genital mutilation/cutting: An update on progress, challenges, and opportunities. The Journal of Women's Health, 27(7), 780–785.
• World Health Organization (WHO). (2018). Female genital mutilation / cutting: Fact sheet. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/female-genital-mutilation