The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Sex and Sexuality

This Handbook covers the most urgent, controversial, and important topics in the philosophy of sex. It is both philosophically rigorous and yet accessible to specialists and non-specialists, covering ethics, political philosophy, metaphysics, the philosophy of science, and the philosophy of language.

Format: Hardback
Length: 614 pages
Publication date: 24 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive Handbook delves into the most pressing, contentious, and essential topics in the realm of philosophy of sex. With a balanced approach that caters to both specialists and non-specialists, it explores a wide range of philosophical disciplines, including ethics, political philosophy, metaphysics, the philosophy of science, and the philosophy of language. By engaging with neighboring fields such as psychology, bioethics, sociology, and anthropology, the Handbook offers a multi-faceted exploration of the complex and multifaceted nature of sex and sexuality.

Comprising a total of 40 chapters, this Handbook is the result of an international collaboration between esteemed senior researchers and emerging scholars. These chapters are organized into eight distinct parts, each addressing key aspects of the philosophy of sex and sexuality.

Part I: What is Sex? Is Sex Good? delves into the fundamental questions surrounding the concept of sex. It examines the nature of sex, its various forms, and the ethical and philosophical implications associated with it. The authors explore whether sex is inherently good or bad, and consider the various perspectives on sexual morality and ethics.

Part II: Sexual Orientations explores the diverse range of sexual orientations and identities that exist within human societies. It examines the philosophical questions surrounding sexual orientation, such as whether it is innate or learned, and the rights and responsibilities of individuals with different sexual orientations. The Handbook also explores the social and cultural implications of sexual orientation, including discrimination, marginalization, and the need for inclusivity and acceptance.

Part III: Sexual Autonomy and Consent focuses on the importance of sexual autonomy and consent in sexual relationships. It examines the ethical and philosophical principles that govern sexual behavior, including the concept of informed consent, the right to privacy, and the boundaries of consent. The Handbook also explores the challenges and complexities associated with consent, such as coercion, manipulation, and the impact of power dynamics.

Part IV: Regulating Sexual Relationships explores the ethical and philosophical considerations involved in regulating sexual relationships. It examines the role of government, society, and individuals in shaping sexual norms, values, and practices. The authors discuss the ethical implications of laws and policies related to sex, such as reproductive rights, sexual harassment, and violence against women.

Part V: Pathologizing Sex and Sexuality delves into the historical and cultural construction of sex and sexuality as deviant or pathological. It examines the ways in which societal norms, religious beliefs, and medical practices have perpetuated harmful stereotypes and discrimination against individuals with different sexual orientations, genders, and sexual practices. The Handbook also explores the potential benefits of challenging these pathologizing narratives and promoting a more inclusive and positive view of sex and sexuality.

Part VI: Contested Desires explores the complex and often conflicting desires that individuals have regarding sex and sexuality. It examines the ethical and philosophical questions surrounding sexual desire, such as whether it is natural or socially constructed, and the ways in which desires can be both healthy and harmful. The Handbook also explores the role of consent, boundaries, and ethical considerations in navigating contested desires and maintaining healthy sexual relationships.

Part VII: Objectification and Commercialized Sex examines the ways in which sex and sexuality are objectified and commodified in popular culture and media. It explores the ethical and philosophical implications of this objectification, including the impact on individuals' self-esteem, body image, and sexual relationships. The Handbook also examines the role of advertising, media, and the entertainment industry in perpetuating harmful stereotypes and promoting unrealistic expectations about sex and sexuality.

Part VIII: Technology and the Future of Sex explores the impact of technology on sex and sexuality. It examines the ethical and philosophical considerations associated with the use of sex toys, virtual reality, and other forms of technology in sexual relationships. The Handbook also explores the potential benefits and risks of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and genetic engineering, in shaping the future of sex and sexuality.

In conclusion, The Routledge Handbook of Philosophy of Sex and Sexuality is a groundbreaking resource that offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the field of philosophy of sex and sexuality. With its broad scope of coverage, depth in insight and research, and accessibility in language, it serves as a valuable resource for newcomers to the subject as well as an invaluable reference work for advanced students and researchers in the field. By exploring the most pressing and contentious topics in the philosophy of sex and sexuality, this Handbook contributes to our understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of sex and sexuality and its impact on individuals, societies, and cultures.

Weight: 1320g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138370678