Farsi (فارسی)
Kurdish (کُردی)
Male Circumcision in Iran
This page introduces Kameel Ahmady’s research on male circumcision in Iran. It connects the associated book and papers with questions about cultural practice, participants’ experiences, bodily autonomy and consent.
What Male Circumcision Means
The NHS describes circumcision as surgery to remove the foreskin covering the head of the penis. In NHS care it may be offered for medical reasons, usually when other treatments have not worked or it is the only option. This UK service context is distinct from the cultural practices examined in the research.
Research Scope
Blade of Tradition in the Name of Religion draws on qualitative interviews with purposefully selected Iranian participants and experts. Accounts illuminate experiences and arguments; they are not a representative measure of attitudes or prevalence across Iran.
Culture, Religion and Consent
The research examines how participants explain the practice through religion, family expectations, identity and other motivations. Ahmady discusses children’s rights and bodily autonomy. These are research themes and ethical arguments; individual accounts should be attributed and read within their context.
Reading Medical Claims
The NHS describes bleeding and the possible need for further surgery among the risks. Medical indications, individual risks and cultural motivations require different kinds of evidence. Claims about sexual outcomes or population-wide benefits need their own appropriate clinical sources.
Research on female genital mutilation/cutting is also available. Shared ethical questions do not establish that the procedures have identical definitions, indications or outcomes.
Book and Related Papers
Follow the book and paper links below for the author’s analysis and methods. This overview does not supply instructions for performing a procedure or a universal recommended age.
References and Further Reading
- NHS
- Kameel Ahmady, Blade of Tradition in the Name of Religion.
This book is also available in Farsi and Kurdish. Follow the edition pages for publication and download details.
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Articles
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About the Researcher
Kameel Ahmady is a British-Iranian researcher working in the field of social anthropology, with a particular focus on gender, children, ethnic minorities, and child labour. Kameel was born in Iranian Kurdistan (also known as East Kurdistan). He obtained his Master’s degree in Social Anthropology and Visual Ethnography from the University of Kent, UK. His academic pursuits include specialized courses in Middle Eastern Politics and Research Methods from other British institutions. Known for studying harmful traditions, Ahmady serves as both a supervisor and developer for his teamwork research publications in Farsi, Kurdish, and English. In 2017, he was honoured with “Honour” prize by the UK based IKWRO organization at the University of Law in London. Subsequently, in 2018, at George Washington University, Global P.E.A.C.E. foundation bestowed upon him the “Literature and Humanities” award in recognition of his contributions to the field. Among his group works are titles such as ” Conformity and Resistance in Mahabad,” ” Another Look at East and Southeast of Turkey,” “In the Name of Tradition,” “A House on Water,” “The Echo of Silence,” ” Traces of Exploitation in Childhood,” and more….
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FAQ About Male Circumcision
- What does the research examine?
It examines participants’ experiences and explanations of male circumcision, alongside cultural practice and debates about consent and bodily autonomy.
- Do interview percentages represent everyone in Iran?
No. Findings from purposefully selected qualitative participants should be read within that sample and research design.
- Is circumcision always performed for the same reason?
The research discusses different motivations. Clinical treatment and non-medical cultural or religious practice should be identified separately.
- Does this page recommend an age or procedure?
No universal age or surgical method is recommended here. The linked NHS page provides clinical context; an individual medical decision requires an appropriate clinician.
- Where can I read the book?
See Blade of Tradition in the Name of Religion and the associated papers linked on this page.
The decision to circumcise is a personal one, and it’s essential to consider cultural, medical, and ethical factors while respecting the autonomy and informed consent of those involved.
The practice of male circumcision has been a subject of debate, with some advocating for its health benefits and others emphasizing the importance of individual choice and consent.
How can education and awareness campaigns help individuals and parents make informed choices about male circumcision, taking into account cultural, medical, and ethical aspects?
Medical research suggests that male circumcision can reduce the risk of certain infections and conditions, such as urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases like HIV.
In some cultures and religions, male circumcision is a rite of passage or a religious requirement, while in other cases, it’s performed for hygiene or preventive health purposes.