Circumcision as a Sign of Adulthood

Probably half of the circumcision debate would not exist if Americans did not insist that one must be cut as a newborn.

I think Africans have the right idea: You signal that you are no longer some teenage hoodlum and ready to be regarded as a responsible adult by accepting circumcision – which also permanently carves the sign of your new status in your flesh.

Of course it would be interesting if one had to prove his circumcision status just to buy beer.

I cannot object against the “better cosmetic results” argument. You simply heal better when you are younger.

But nearly always there is a physical scar, it just varies “from tribe to tribe” what look is expected.

E.g. The “tribe” known as North Americans typically think of the brown Gomco ring as appropriate proof that one is a member of their own tribe. But other groups have different circumcision styles and scars to recognize their own members by.
A Gomco scar may be fashionable in North America but it would be the sign of an outsider in Kenya or South Africa because their favorite circumcision methods are different.
As for the not remembering part: In cultures where circumcision marks the transition to manhood the point is that you do remember it. Also the idea is that you have to conquer your fear of the procedure if you want to be treated as an adult.