The Sexual Life of Our Time in Its Relations to Modern Civilization / Translated from the Sixth German Edition

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

60968

Title

The Sexual Life of Our Time in Its Relations to Modern Civilization / Translated from the Sixth German Edition

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Iwan Bloch's seminal work offers a scholarly yet accessible exploration of modern sexuality, bridging the gap between primal biological impulses and the spiritual individuality developed through civilization. This comprehensive encyclopedia addresses love, marriage, homosexuality, venereal diseases, and sexual education with medical precision and philosophical depth.

Summary up to 500 words

In "The Sexual Life of Our Time in Its Relations to Modern Civilization," Dr. Iwan Bloch presents a comprehensive monistic analysis of human sexuality, arguing that love is an organic unity of physical and spiritual forces rather than a dualistic phenomenon. Bloch posits that while the sexual impulse serves the elemental purpose of species preservation, modern civilization has allowed this force to evolve into a pathway for individual freedom and self-development. He illustrates this progression with the metaphor of a tree: its roots are firmly planted in the physical sphere, yet its branches extend high into the spiritual realm. Bloch systematically addresses the "woman's question," rigorously critiquing historical misogyny found in thinkers like Schopenhauer and Strindberg. He attributes such hatred to personal disillusionment or neurosis rather than biological fact, advocating instead for a partnership of free men and women where both sexes awaken to their shared humanity and rights. A significant portion of the treatise is dedicated to the "riddle of homosexuality." Bloch challenges contemporary medical orthodoxy by distinguishing between congenital, healthy homosexuality (uranism/tribadism) and acquired pseudo-homosexuality. He reframes homosexuality not as a degenerative disease or moral failing, but as a distinct anthropological phenomenon with its own social life and legal struggles, particularly regarding the repeal of §175 in Germany. The text treats various sexual perversities—including sadism, masochism, fetishism, necrophilia, and bestiality—with forensic objectivity, separating them from moral condemnation. Bloch also covers venereal diseases, offering insights into transmission and prophylaxis while addressing the social stigma of prostitution. Furthermore, he champions sexual education, artificial contraception (Neo-Malthusianism), and hygiene as essential components of a healthy society. Throughout the work, Bloch critiques the sensationalism of pornographic literature and the ignorance that fuels prejudice. He concludes with an optimistic outlook, suggesting that humanity can master its sexual impulses not through suppression, but through understanding and integration, fostering a future free from the evils of bigotry and misunderstanding.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Ethics
• Sexuality