Family planning and female genital mutilation : the discrimination of women in non-western cultures : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

Within this paper, I explore the discrimination of women, focusing primarily on their health and sexuality. I seek to ascertain the different forms this discrimination takes, the cultures it is occurring in, and how it is affecting the women. The issues of family planning and female genital mutilation are studied within the context of non-Western cultures--specifically, India, China, and various African and/or Muslim societies. I attempt to understand the history and traditions of these cultures and how the women perceive the discrimination. I attempt to explore the two issues without bias from my own culture. I do not formulate solutions to the problem of discrimination. Nor do I in any way suggest that non-Western cultures are inferior to western cultures. Instead, I am simply discussing the issue of sexuality and its effects on the women.