Thursday, December 24, 2009

Philosopher wants to tell us the right way to have sex?

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/20/magazine/20george-t.html?pagewanted=all

Robert George is a conservative philosopher who maintains that the only appropriate sex act is vaginal coitus between a man and a women.  He also claims that using birth control takes away from the experience.  Really?

First, is there any evidence that this is true?  No.  Why do I say that?  Well, let's take a look at what people do when they have sex.  25% of people over 40 years old still have oral sex.  In younger people, it is a much higher percentage.  Do you think these people are not enjoying sex?  I bet they do.  In fact, it is the variety of sexual activities that brings pleasure to a couple.

People enjoy sex better when they feel safe and comfortable in the relationship (Lawrence & Byers, 2005).  Sexuality in relationships is better when spouses are securely attached (Butzer & Campbell, 2008).  Good communication,  mutual support, and empathy for each other lead to sexually satisfying relationships.  Sexual satisfaction is not achieved by engaging in specific sexual acts.