When I research any human rights issue in the world today, I usually run into the issue of culture. Proponents of a controversial behavior or practice use culture as an excuse for their actions. The first example that comes to mind is female genital mutilation (FGM). Millions of terrified girls and women are forced to undergo this process every year to "purify" their genitals. It is a woman's right to do to her body as she wishes; therefore, she is within her rights to mutilate herself in the name of culture. The trouble comes when cultural purification is forced upon girls too young and terrified to make the choice for themsleves. Culture is not an adequate excuse for permanently maiming an unwilling child.
Why do we treat culture as if it's infallible? Cultures of the world, just as the humans who create them, are flawed. Whether it be sloth, greediness, extreme materialism, persecution or abuse, culture breeds some of the worst parts of society. Therefore, the "culture-made-me-do-it" defense isn't really viable.
Don't get me wrong: I love exploring mine and other cultures. It is through culture that we discover some of the most beautiful creations that society has to offer (art, music and literature among them). However, no culture is perfect; that's part of what makes it genuine.
Note- I've just scratched the surface on culture. Expect more on this note soon!
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