Uncut: A Cultural Analysis of the Foreskin

Allan’s (gender and women’s studies, Brandon Univ.; Reading from Behind) book traces circumcision throughout history and up through the present day. The practice of circumcision has been debated and remains a major discussion point for parents of newborn boys. The book notes that it’s often done for faith-based reasons—notably among the Abrahamic faiths of Judaism and Islamism—and for secular considerations. The book indicates that it’s a common practice among North Americans, and it was long believed that the removal of the foreskin reduces the spread of STDs. Allan discusses these perceptions and modern societal and spiritual views about uncircumcised people. But the most intriguing part of this book is about the burgeoning intactivist movement, which argues that circumcision is a form of mutilation that’s medically unnecessary and should not be decided upon until a boy reaches an age where he can decide for himself.