Child Brides - Tradition or State Sanctioned Rape?

[Medusa]

Originally Posted by EnderD_503

I think that the way the tradition of child brides over there is viewed is probably divided. While I was living in Europe I remember watching a news programme that was talking about a young girl in India, if I recall correctly, who tried to bring attention to the child bride tradition. Apparently she took part in an Indian tv show where one of the main themes was bringing awareness to the issue, and she apparently spoke out against it on more than one occasion. Apparently since the controversy things went downhill for her, but it does demonstrate that there are some young Indian girls trying to oppose the tradition.

While I obviously have no idea, never having lived in an affected nation, I would imagine, judging from that controversy, that some view it as a valuable cultural tradition, while others view it as an oppressive tradition that sanctions rape, just like that young Indian girl does. I'll see if I can find an article or video clip that talks about her.

Under our definition of rape, it certainly is rape, but when we consider that comparable traditions used to exist in the west (and again realising how words and their meanings change through time and according to tradition) as well it's difficult to slap a label on a tradition that wasn't formed within our time period, or coming from the same perspective that we are today. As wishywashy and subjective as all this sounds, I really do think it depends on which perspective you're coming from. Which doesn't mean that I personally don't see it as sanctioned rape, but I do think that's something to consider. My personal opinion is that it is rape, that it's an infringement upon the sovereignty of the individual and, as such, I am entirely opposed to it and do hope that those fighting to change the laws that allow it win out.

I'm glad that you brought up your time living in Europe, Ender! I'd be curious to know what Europeans thought of the LDS issue that was happening over here in America (last summer? or before?). I think I sometimes forget that its not as polar as America v the rest of the world. Damn that American-centrism!

I believe personally that it is rape as well but I also have value for traditions and cultures in other countries. I keep thinking about how very Patriarchal a lot of societies across the world are and how that might give weight to women being seen as "less powerful", as "property", and especially in this discussion, how "child brides" might be considered a "right" for some men.
I know it isnt as simple as pointing at the Patriarchy for everything, especially with religious interweaving.

I'll also have to admit my ignorance on just how widespread or ingrained the child bride industry is across the world. Need to do some reading on this one.

Thanks for the discussion! This stuff feeds my soul