Touchy Subject: The History and Philosophy of Sex Education

In the United States, sex education is a political hobby horse that is increasingly out of touch with young people's needs. In Touchy Subject, philosopher Lauren Bialystok and historian Lisa M. F. Andersen unpack debates over sex education, explaining why it is worth fighting for, what points of consensus we can build upon, and what sort of sex education schools should pursue in the future. They argue for a novel framework, Democratic Humanistic Sexuality Education, which exceeds the current conception of "comprehensive sex education" while making room for contextual variation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2022
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

In the United States, sex education goes beyond being a mere uncomfortable rite of passage; it has become a political pastime that is increasingly disconnected from the realities and needs of young people. In their book, Touchy Subject, philosopher Lauren Bialystok and historian Lisa M. F. Andersen delve into the ongoing debates surrounding sex education, exploring why it is worth advocating for, identifying areas of consensus, and proposing a future vision for sex education in schools.

Andersen provides a comprehensive historical overview of school-based sex education in the United States, tracing the key questions that have driven reform throughout different eras. Bialystok, on the other hand, delves into the controversies surrounding sex education, analyzing the arguments and offering practical advice for making informed educational choices in the present day. Together, Bialystok and Andersen advocate for a novel framework called Democratic Humanistic Sexuality Education, which goes beyond the traditional concept of "comprehensive sex education" while allowing for contextual variations.

Sex education should not merely be a superficial introduction to reproductive biology; rather, it should adapt to the evolving world of young people, particularly the digital realm, and address the inequalities that put certain students at a significantly higher risk of sexual harm. Throughout the book, the authors highlight the progress made in sex education and the ongoing debate surrounding the concept of progress itself.

In conclusion, Touchy Subject offers a thought-provoking exploration of sex education in the United States, challenging the status quo and advocating for a more inclusive and relevant approach that meets the needs of young people in the 21st century. By examining the historical and philosophical context of sex education, the book provides valuable insights and recommendations for policymakers, educators, and parents alike.

Weight: 368g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226822181