Spend an evening watching a popular prime-time drama as well as the commercials and you will quickly get a sense for how deeply sex is embedded in today’s American culture. Laderman doesn't shy away from this topic, in fact he addresses one of the most taboo topics related to sexuality right from the start, the pornography industry. Although he does not offer any direct opinions as to the health or morality of the porn industry I think it is possible to pick up on whispers of a cautionary sort with regard to pornography and its effects on participants and viewers. Regardless Laderman seeks to understand why so many Americans are so committed to consuming pornographic media.
I was disappointed in Laderman's summary of what he felt is the traditional Christian 'take on sex' which included a low view of the physical body and an understanding of sex as being purely for reproduction. I believe this view of sex is one which was historically part of the Catholic church since the time of Augustine and I'm not sure it still holds true today. I know that within my own part of the Christian tradition the body is not viewed as evil and sex is celebrated when it is part of a healthy monogamous marriage. I have no problem admitting that the church for many centuries spread some damaging teachings when it came to the body and our sexuality, and while some continue to do so many Christians have begun teaching a much more healthy understanding of sexuality and its connection with our spirituality. Tina Schermer Sellers has an excellent article, which addresses this very topic.
Along with pornography Laderman examines the ways in which many Americans seek sacred sexual experiences in same-sex encounters, sadomasochism, New Age wisdom, Kama Sutra, and just more adventurous sex. I think the connection between sexuality and spirituality is a very healthy one, that highlights the healing possibilities inherent in a healthy sexual relationship. Relationship is the key in that phrase. I do not believe that random sexual experiences can provide the same kind of healing available from a committed physical, emotional, personal relationship. The connection experienced in a sexual encounter is available because in that moment we are completely vulnerable. When people buy the lie that sex is purely physical, that we need only make sure it's 'safe', they practice an inappropriate vulnerability which wounds them and their partner.
While the sexual revolution has taught us that our bodies are not bad and that sex is as much if not more spiritual than functional we should not be too quick to leave behind the wisdom of religious traditions which have understood this for a long time. Could it be that the oneness we so desperately desire with God is glimpsed in a healthy committed relationship with another person? If so, then it is no wonder that sexuality and the industries connected to it are full of religious communities seeking this connection in the easiest way possible, sex.
I agree! Great post. :)
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