What is circumcision and why is it done?

From: Travis Lee Winfrey <[email protected]>

"Male circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin from the
penis. When performed in a hospital, it is usually done shortly
after birth by a doctor or midwife. Circumcisions are also given to
Jewish boys by a _mohel_ in a ceremony seven days after birth. Some
(all?) Islamic boys are circumcised when they are older, around 12.
The majority of American boys are circumcised.

Common reasons for circumcision include: better hygiene, "normal" or
"better" appearance, and "his penis should look like his father's."
Common reasons against circumcision include: it is no longer
necessary for hygienic reasons; it is a painful, barbaric practice;
possibility of infection or surgical error; "normal" or "better"
appearance; "his penis should look like his father's."; and "greater
sensitivity of uncircumcised penis."

Female circumcision is used to refer to a variety of practices,
including the removal of the clitoral hood. It is primarily
practised in Northern Africa.''