This lecture was interesting to say the least. I found out so much information which I did not know before and found it very eyeopening experience.Body modification is changing the body from its original state. There are two types of body modification:Non invasive practices invasive practices, temporary decorations and permanent decorations.
Non invasive practices do not alter the body however they do alter the surface of the body. For example, changing hair colour. Invasive practices involve temporary or permanently modifying by adding or removing to parts of the body. For example, tattoos or piercings.
Individuals modify their body for a number of reasons, such as, its an art to some people, to express themselves, its fashionable, its addictive, for pleasure, to feel attractive, for religion,rebellion, to remember people( tributes to them)or even because of peer pressure in certain ways.(just to name a few).
Body modification is seen differently in different cultures and societies.According to this websitehttp://http//www.essortment.com/all/whatisbodymod_pdv.htm .'Body modification is a common traditional practice in many cultures around the world. Piercing and scarification has significance which varies for each individual, but their roles in society today are still important'- this means that in many religions scarring and piercings can be seen as attacking their god.
However, in some cultures for example in tribes , body modification can be seen as a right of passage- showing an individual has passed over into adulthood. This website http://http//www.environmentalgraffiti.com/featured/insane-tribal-body-modifications/14365shows the extent in which different cultures go to to portray this transition over to adulthood. For example,'Rikbaktsa boys have their ears pierced during a ritual celebration at the age of 14 or 15 when they are capable of hunting large animals and know about traditional ceremonies. This rite of passage marks the young man’s transition into adulthood and eligibility for marriage with the boy exchanging his child name for his adult name'. To be honest I can see why different cultures modify their bodies, it shows they are unique cultures and this could be a way that they try to distinguish themselves from other cultures.
Personally, in terms of body modification, I think some piercings are acceptable such as, nose, eye brow, ears and belly button piercings, I also feel that tattoos that are acceptable as long as they are not massive or plastered all over your body. I think this because It does not look very nice and I do not feel your body was meant to be tattooed all over. In lecture we saw people who had their most private areas of their body modified. Personally, I do not see how or why someone would or even could put themselves through this- imagine the pain! I do however, despite my personal opinions, I think that no one should be judged for having their body modified its their decision at the end of the day- its their choice!
Overall, body modification can be seen as bad behaviour to some people , for example, in some cultures and religions it can be seen as immoral and the ultimate disrespect to god, also some people see you are ruining your body- you could be scarred for life. body modification can also limit professional opportunities some employers turn down people for jobs because they have tattoos showing .People who have tattoos younger(for social reasons) are also more likely to get them removed when they are older.Overall, I feel that if a person wants to modify their body, it is up to them and I do not think we should judge them. What do you all think?
I agree with Karrie-Anne. I think that people have their own choices when it come to tattoos and body modifications. this is because as a person we have our own rights to do what we wish with our bodies.
ReplyDeleteHer examples, images and opinions about this subject were very informative.
Overall I think Karrie-Anne has a sound knowledge about this subject, as she wrote an effective non-bias discussion.
Elisha =]