A study released in January, 2016 about the use of the word natural when talking about breastfeeding believes that use of the term can be "ethically problematic", and can accidentally support "biologically deterministic arguments" about roles of parents in a family, and endorse controversial values about family life and gender roles.
Before expressing my opinion, I want to throw a few things out there:
- I am male, so while I strive to be open minded, I will not pretend to understand what it is like to be the opposite sex, and what struggles Women go through on a day-to-day basis. If you feel I have portrayed something inaccurately, please tell me. I am always open to widening my understanding.
- I am not a parent (though I will be in the Spring of 2018), so I can't speak for those of you with children. Like I stated in point 1 though, please comment if you feel I have missed something. Always looking to learn!
After reading the article, I can see why some would think that use of the term natural when referring to breastfeeding could potentially be harmful, especially if the term is used without a clear context or definition. There are those out there (I am not one of them) who believe that because women are the ones who can breastfeed, they belong in the stereotypical "Caretaker" gender role that they have been shoved into for a long time. But at the same time I think the article is ignoring the literal definition of the word in favor of pushing some agenda. If you didn't know, the literal definition of the word natural is:
Existing in or caused by nature; not made or caused by humankind.
In this context, where "made or caused by humankind" refers to the artificial creation/manufacturing of the object in question, what other term would be more appropriate to use? I am no Biologist, but I am fairly certain Women, Human Females, are the only ones able to produce breast milk for Human Infants. If this is not true then I am in for a rude awakening come April when my first child arrives.
Another interesting piece of material about the same subject was a Tucker Carlson interview from back in April of this year. I won't dive into detail about it, I'll just let you watch it yourself, but some very good points are made. The video can be found here.
Please let me know what you think down in the comments below! I would to hear a different opinion!