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

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  • Gabriel Šaffa

    (University of South Bohemia)

  • Jan Zrzavý

    (University of South Bohemia)

  • Pavel Duda

    (University of South Bohemia)

Abstract

Genital mutilation/cutting is costly in terms of health, survival and reproduction, and the long-term maintenance of these practices is an evolutionary conundrum. Previous studies have suggested a mate-guarding function or various signalling functions of genital mutilation/cutting. Here we use phylogenetic comparative methods and two global ethnographic samples to study the origins and socio-ecological correlates of major types of female and male genital mutilation/cutting. Male genital mutilation/cutting probably originated in polygynous societies with separate residence of co-wives, supporting a mate-guarding function. Female genital mutilation/cutting originated subsequently and almost exclusively in societies already practising male genital mutilation/cutting, where it may have become a signal of chastity. Both have originated multiple times, some as early as in the mid-Holocene (5,000–7,000 years ago), considerably predating the earliest archaeological evidence and written records. Genital mutilation/cutting co-evolves with and may help maintain fundamental social structures, hindering efforts to change these cultural practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Gabriel Šaffa & Jan Zrzavý & Pavel Duda, 2022. "Global phylogenetic analysis reveals multiple origins and correlates of genital mutilation/cutting," Nature Human Behaviour, Nature, vol. 6(5), pages 635-645, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nathum:v:6:y:2022:i:5:d:10.1038_s41562-022-01321-x
    DOI: 10.1038/s41562-022-01321-x
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    Cited by:

    1. Gibson, Mhairi A. & Gurmu, Eshetu & Chua, Regina & Van Bavel, Hannelore & Myers, Sarah, 2023. "Abandoning female genital mutilation/cutting (FGMC) is an emerging but costly parental investment strategy in rural Ethiopia," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 335(C).

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