From KCRW in Santa Monica and PRI, Public Radio International, this is To the Point.

Does sparing the rod still mean spoiling the child?

Hello again, I'm Arminolny, and this is To the Point from Public Radio International.

The daily look at the issues Americans care about most.

Recent incidents involving the National Football League have focused attention on domestic violence,

including the disciplining of small children.

Is spanking always a form of child abuse?

Is a firm hand administered with a loving heart required to turn many kids into better people?

39 other countries have outlawed spanking even at home,

but 19 American states allow paddling in schools.

We'll hear about the roles of religion and culture,

the sanctity of the private home, and the rights of children.

Today's talking point, when Alibaba finally goes on sale tomorrow,

investors won't really be getting a piece of the action. First,

here's the news.

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Support for To The Point comes from the members of KCRW and from the Public Radio International Program Fund.

Hello again, Mormon Alney, back with To the Point.

An NFL running back has been indicted in Texas for whipping his four-year-old son,

raising a passionate public argument about corporal punishment. Is it child abuse over tough

love? Does government have the right or the obligation to dictate how parents discipline children?

...