In my view, this thread has become offensive and even hateful at times.
Male circumcision is a completely benign procedure that has been shown to have health benefits and there have been no negative consequences documented. There is no reason why those who want to circumcise their newborn boys should be prevented from doing so. It is a matter of choice just like piercing ears (which, in young children, frequently leads to infections by the way).
The only reason that this has become an issue is that Muslims believe in male circumcision and there are some very bigoted TERB members with an irrational fear of Muslims posting in this thread.
In fact, Muslims adopted circumcision from the Jews who practice it as well. There are many Christians who believe in circumcising their sons and there are many parents who make this choice for their male children for non-religious reasons.
There have been posts here suggesting that we should be against circumcision because it is a Muslim practice and, therefore barbaric. This is a hateful and unacceptable statement to make in public and those who have espoused this view should be ashamed of themselves. As we all know, circumcision is not a "Muslim" practice but an international one in which Muslims also participate. And we also know that there is nothing "barbaric" about Islam and so it is offensive to imply the two are linked. And while we're on the topic, female circumcision is not party of Muslim, Christian, or Jewish law and it is hateful to imply that Muslims support this practice.
I am out of this thread. While I appreciate respectful debate, I will not participate in or encourage hate speech. I am shocked at what some of you have written and i am disappointed that so few of you (and zero MODs it appears) have stepped up to call out the bigots an call for an end to this shameful behaviour.
