Theory explains why 25 percent of cultures cut male genitals

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Chris Wilson explains his research on the evolution of male mutilation at a recent research symposium.
Chris Wilson explains his research on the evolution of male mutilation at a recent research symposium.

Almost 25 percent of indigenous societies practice some form of male genital cutting, ranging from circumcision to the ritual removal of a testicle. The reason, reports a Cornell scientist, may be to reduce pregnancies from extramarital sex. More subtly, it could be to reduce conflict among men.


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