PHIL 1402 Journal 5
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Enforcing Adult Beliefs: A Tightrope Walk Between Tradition and
Autonomy University of the People
Intro to Philosophy – PHIL 1402
Professor Naugle
12/21/2023
Enforcing Adult Beliefs: A Tightrope Walk Between Tradition and Autonomy The practice of imposing adult belief structures on children, from religious doctrines to cultural customs like female genital mutilation (FGM) or sport hunting, presents a complex moral and ethical dilemma. While some argue for the importance of transmitting traditions and shaping young minds, others raise concerns about potential harm to children's autonomy and well-being. Navigating this tension requires careful consideration of both the potential benefits and risks, informed by ethical frameworks that prioritize individual rights and well-being.
My Position: Navigating a Nuanced Path
I believe that while some aspects of adult belief structures can be shared with children, imposing them without their informed consent is ethically problematic. This position rests on two key principles:
Respect for Autonomy:
Children, as developing individuals, should have the right to gradually form their own beliefs and values through free and informed exploration. Imposing beliefs preempts this crucial process, potentially limiting their autonomy and hindering the development
of a critical and independent mind (Philippe, 2012).
Minimizing Harm:
Practices like FGM and child marriages can inflict physical and emotional harm on children (Philippe, 2012), violating their right to bodily integrity and causing unnecessary suffering. Additionally, imposing religious doctrines that promote discrimination or intolerance can hinder a child's ability to develop empathy and respect for diverse perspectives.
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Enforcing Adult Beliefs: A Tightrope Walk Between Tradition and Autonomy Example 1:
Consider the practice of FGM, which involves the partial or complete removal of female genitalia. Proponents argue that it is a deeply ingrained cultural tradition and a rite of passage. However, research shows that FGM has severe consequences for girls' physical and mental health, causing significant pain, infections, and psychological trauma. Imposing this practice on children before they can fully understand its implications and potential harm violates their right to bodily autonomy and inflicts unnecessary suffering.
Objection 1: The Importance of Tradition and Culture
Opponents of my position might argue that upholding cultural traditions and ensuring continuity between generations is crucial for social cohesion and identity. They might point to the potential loss of cultural heritage if children are not exposed to traditional beliefs and practices. However, respecting tradition does not necessitate imposing harmful or restrictive practices on children. Cultural evolution and adaptation are inherent to human societies, and ensuring the well-being of future generations should be the primary concern.
Defense: Navigating Tradition Ethically
Tradition can be transmitted and celebrated without infringing on children's autonomy. Parents and communities can share stories, rituals, and values while acknowledging the right of children to eventually make their own choices. Open dialogue and critical engagement with traditions can
allow children to appreciate their cultural heritage while also developing their own perspectives and values.
Ethical Framework: Deontological Ethics and the Categorical Imperative
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Enforcing Adult Beliefs: A Tightrope Walk Between Tradition and Autonomy Deontological ethics, particularly Immanuel Kant's categorical imperative, provides a valuable framework for navigating this dilemma (Kantian Ethics, n.d.). The categorical imperative states that one should act only in ways that one could consistently will to become universal laws. Applying this principle to the situation at hand, it becomes clear that imposing harmful or restrictive beliefs on children would be inconsistent with a universal law guaranteeing individual autonomy and well-being.
Objection 2: The Role of Parental Guidance and Religious Upbringing
Another potential objection might point to the role of parental guidance and religious upbringing in shaping children's moral development. Parents, after all, have a responsibility to guide their children and provide them with a framework for understanding the world. However, this guidance should not involve imposing beliefs that cause harm or limit children's freedom to eventually make their own informed choices.
Defense: Nurturing Independent Thinkers
Parents and religious communities can play a crucial role in nurturing independent thinkers by fostering open dialogue, critical thinking skills, and exposure to diverse perspectives. This allows
children to develop their own moral compass based on reason, empathy, and respect for human rights. Such an approach promotes informed belief formation rather than blind acceptance of imposed doctrines.
Conclusion
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Enforcing Adult Beliefs: A Tightrope Walk Between Tradition and Autonomy Enforcing adult belief structures on children presents a complex ethical dilemma. While acknowledging the importance of cultural heritage and parental guidance, prioritizing children's autonomy and well-being is paramount. Navigating this tightrope walk requires respect for individual rights, critical engagement with tradition, and fostering an environment where children can freely explore and eventually choose their own beliefs. Only by prioritizing individual well-being and respecting the right to informed consent can we ensure that future generations inherit not just traditions, but also the freedom to question, adapt, and build upon them (Appiah, 2006).
Word count: 732 words
References
Appiah, K. A. (2006). Cosmopolitanism: Ethics in a world of strangers. W. W. Norton & Company.
Cosmopolitanism: Ethics in a World of Strangers | Request PDF (researchgate.net)
Kantian Ethics.
(n.d.). https://web.archive.org/web/20210518060451/https:/www.csus.edu/indiv/g/gaskilld/
ethics/kantian%20ethics.htm Philippe, M. (2012, September 02). Children and religion: Influence of religion on children and their rights
. https://www.humanium.org/en/children-and-religions/
United Nations Declaration of the Rights of the Child (1989). https://www.unicef.org/child-
rights-convention
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