Unnatural Selection by Mara Hvistendahl
- 1. Unnatural Selection by Mara Hvistendahl is a groundbreaking exploration of the profound societal implications of gender-based sex selection, particularly in Asia, where a cultural preference for male children has led to a staggering gender imbalance. Hvistendahl meticulously examines the historical, social, and technological factors that have contributed to this phenomenon, highlighting how advances in prenatal technology have enabled families to choose the sex of their children. The book delves into the consequences of this skewed ratio, which has given rise to increased violence against women, trafficking, and a generation of 'lost' women who are erased from society. Hvistendahl also critiques the role of Western intervention, particularly through the lens of population control policies, which have often overlooked the ethical implications of such selection practices. By weaving together personal stories, statistical analyses, and ethical reflections, Unnatural Selection serves as a powerful indictment of the practices that devalue women and challenges readers to reconsider the moral dimensions of reproductive rights and gender equity in a rapidly changing world.
What is the central subject of Mara Hvistendahl's 'Unnatural Selection'?
A) Genetic engineering
B) Animal breeding
C) Climate change
D) Sex-selective abortion
- 2. Which gender is predominantly targeted in the sex-selective practices discussed in the book?
A) The book doesn't specify
B) Male
C) Female
D) Both equally
- 3. What major technological development enabled widespread sex-selective abortion?
A) Blood tests
B) X-rays
C) Ultrasound
D) MRI machines
- 4. Which country is highlighted as having one of the most severe gender imbalances due to sex selection?
A) China
B) Germany
C) United States
D) Brazil
- 5. Which organization initially promoted sex selection in Asia, according to Hvistendahl?
A) Red Cross
B) Population Council
C) United Nations
D) World Health Organization
- 6. What was the original justification for promoting sex selection technology in developing countries?
A) Medical research
B) Economic development
C) Population control
D) Women's rights
- 7. Which technological advancement followed ultrasound in making sex selection easier?
A) Microscopes
B) CT scans
C) PET scans
D) Amniocentesis
- 8. What cultural factor contributes significantly to son preference in the discussed regions?
A) Religious diversity
B) Patrilineal inheritance
C) Urbanization
D) Educational systems
- 9. Which Western country provided significant funding for population control programs discussed?
A) United States
B) Canada
C) France
D) United Kingdom
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