In reply to Larry in Mazatlan.

Larry,

I'm comfortable repeating my assertion that these people Emily is referring to are both uneducated (no one who is familiar with the realities here would dispute this) and ignorant (which my dictionary defines as 'lacking in knowledge or training'), which seems obvious to even a casual observer. Contrary to your claim, I did not say they were 'dumb'. No doubt there are some which know a great deal about many things of which I am ignorant.

In my original comment I told Emily I thought it was a mistake for her not to fully disclose the dangers of the course of action which she was recommending to these women. In her own words she wrote, "I, personally, think it’s one of the harshest, most damaging forms of birth control available world-wide, for short and long-term effects on women. But I feel it would be irresponsible to go into reasons why in front of these women, because for many of them it’s the perfect answer...."

I believe we have a greater-not lesser-obligation to our bretheren who are less developed. These people are, in many ways, like children. Their ignorance is not a result of stupidity (that's a red herring). When I address my children, I must take into consideration their level of education, maturity and awareness. For those less educated, I have to take extra precautions to make them aware of things which the older, more experienced and educated children, might not need reminding of.

This truth may be offensive to some, but it is the reality of parenting and, as my colleagues who have spent many decades doing mission work, a prudent practice when dealing with indigenous peoples who are unfamiliar with our technology and methods. It's easy sometimes to think we are above reproach because we are well-intentioned. No doubt the conquistador reference was offensive, but it was intended to 'prick the conscience', because the conquistadors no doubt were well-intentioned too.