Global phylogenetic analysis reveals multiple origins and correlates of genital mutilation/cutting

Nature Human Behavior • Vol/Iss. 6 • Nature • • Published In • Pages: 635-645 •
By Šaffa, Gabriel, Zrzavý, Jan, Duda, Pavel

Hypothesis

Genital mutilation/cutting is associated with Islam.

Note

This is tested against each form of GM/C. Islam is found to fit models on male circumcision and clitoridectomy. The correlated evolution model shows that Islamic societies are more likely to adopt clitoridectomy, and that societies that already practice clitoridectomy are more likely to adopt Islam. It also shows that societies that already practice male circumcision are more likely to adopt Islam.

Test

Test NameSupportSignificanceCoefficientTail
Phylogenetic logistic regression, Correlated evolutionPartially Supported (see note)UNKNOWNUNKNOWNUNKNOWN

Variables

Variable NameVariable Type OCM Term(s)
ExcisionUNKNOWNBody Alterations
Islam UNKNOWNGeneral Character Of Religion
ClitoridectomyUNKNOWNBody Alterations
InfibulationUNKNOWNBody Alterations
Male circumcisionUNKNOWNBody Alterations
SuperincisionUNKNOWNBody Alterations
Female genital mutilation/cuttingUNKNOWNBody Alterations
Male genital mutilation/cuttingUNKNOWNBody Alterations