Ethics of circumcision

Ethics of circumcision

The Ethics of circumcision (pronunciation: /ˈsɜː.kəmˌsɪʒ.ən/) refers to the moral considerations and debates surrounding the practice of circumcision. The term is derived from the Latin circumcisio, meaning "to cut around".

Definition

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis. This practice is common in many cultures and religions, including Judaism and Islam, where it is seen as a rite of passage and a sign of faith. However, the ethics of circumcision have been a subject of controversy and debate.

Ethical considerations

The main ethical considerations surrounding circumcision include the issues of consent, bodily integrity, religious freedom, and medical necessity.

Consent

One of the primary ethical issues surrounding circumcision is the question of consent. Critics argue that infants and children are not capable of giving informed consent to the procedure, which is often performed shortly after birth or during childhood.

Bodily integrity

The principle of bodily integrity is another key ethical consideration. This principle holds that individuals have a right to autonomy and self-determination over their own bodies. Critics of circumcision argue that the procedure violates this principle.

Religious freedom

The issue of religious freedom is also a significant ethical consideration in the debate over circumcision. Proponents argue that the practice is a fundamental aspect of certain religious traditions and that prohibiting it would infrive on the right to religious freedom.

Medical necessity

The question of medical necessity is another ethical consideration. Some argue that circumcision has health benefits, such as reduced risk of urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases. However, others argue that these benefits do not outweigh the potential risks and harms of the procedure.

Related terms

• Informed consent
• Bodily autonomy
• Religious rights
• Medical ethics

See also

• Ethics of male circumcision
• Ethics of female circumcision
• Circumcision controversy

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Ethics of circumcision
• Wikipedia's article - Ethics of circumcision

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