Cultural Analysis of 'The Case Against Circumcision '

The text I've chosen for Project 2 is The Case Against Circumcision by George Hill. In the following post, I will analyzing the cultural context of this source's argument as per the Writing Public Lives reading.

Bohland, Alyssa. "Screen shot of 'The case against circumcision' article" 9/30/2015 via Doctors Opposing Circumcision 

My chosen cultural keywords: 

unethical, risks, disillusioned 

Basic Thesis / Main Argument:

There is no real evidence to support neonatal circumcision, only outdated misconceptions originated from outdated (and since proven false) medical practices. 

Freewrite

Circumcision in neonate males has been an unquestioned routine in the birthing process for decades. Medical professionals have boasted its benefits in medical terms. Recent studies, however, have suggested that these thoughts are disillusioned and there are more risks than benefits associated with the process. 

In addition to evidence of risks, the author also proposes that the process is unethical, violating the rights of the child who is unable to make the decision by himself. 

How do these keywords help support the argument that the author is making?

The author's argument against neonatal circumcision includes an emphasis on the medical risks, the ethical concerns of the child, and the overall lack of knowledge of both parents and medical professionals in discrediting the practice. These keywords define the major points of his argument, and are thus very good supporters.

Why might an audience be more likely to support this argument if it is connected to these values?

The author appeals to society's sense of propriety. He makes a very strong argument about how everyone had been misled to believe the benefits of circumcision far outweigh not being circumcised. His tone in the article does, at points, verge on being critical of the public's blind approval of the practice, and labels the doctors who still support it as being "wounded" because they themselves are circumcised. However, he supports his sarcasm by clearly and succinctly pointing out the benefits of a neonatal male remaining uncircumcised.