International Journal of Humanity Studies (IJHS)
Vol 6, No 1 (2022): September 2022

BREASTFEEDING IN PUBLIC: THE INTERSECTION OF BIOLOGY AND SEXUALITY

Marinda P.D. Ghaisani (Graduate student of American Studies, Faculty of Cultural Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada)
Dewi H. Susilastuti (Master and Doctoral Program in Leadership and Policy Innovation The Graduate School Universitas Gadjah Mada Center for Population and Policy Studies Universitas Gadjah Mada)



Article Info

Publish Date
12 Aug 2022

Abstract

Breastfeeding is an infant feeding method recommended by health practitioners. Many women see it as an advantageous infant feeding method. Moreover, they perceive it as their right to provide the best for their children, and it has been legally protected. Unfortunately, not everybody looks at breastfeeding in public in a positive light. The United States of America is the bastion of individual rights.  Ironically women who exercise their right to breastfeed in public often experiment objections from others. Those who protest against breastfeeding in public argue that the act is inappropriate as it involves breasts. Indeed, breasts have two functions: biological and sexual, but breasts’ sexual function often overshadows its biological function. The objection to breastfeeding in public puts women in an uncomfortable position that is fraught with disagreements. According to the theory of intimate citizenship, multiple voices regarding breastfeeding in public breed conflict. There is a tension between personal concerns of breastfeeding mothers and discomfort of some elements of the public. In addition, there is a silent agreement that breastfeeding mothers are expected to resolve these competing needs.

Copyrights © 2022






Journal Info

Abbrev

IJHS

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

International Journal of Humanity Studies (IJHS), a double blind peer-reviewed journal, publishes scientific full papers written in English. IJHS is a biannual, published twice a year, namely in September and ...