ABSTRACT
Few expressions so poignantly illustrate the weakness and powerlessness of certain categories of people as their acquiescence in actions that are harmful to themselves. Yet, as a corollary, it should not be forgotten that there are also few instances which so reflect feelings of superior paternalism than the arrogation of the right to unilaterally determine whether a particular action performed by others is harmful or not. These underlying premises should be constantly borne in mind when attempting to examine the nature of certain tribal practices imposed on defined groups, to evaluate the reasons for their existence and the results of their performance, and to assess the possibilities of modifying or eliminating them.
