Understanding the Sexual Revolution
The sexual revolution is often misunderstood as a sudden shift in societal values that occurred in the 1960s. However, its roots run much deeper, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. This revolution is not just about changing attitudes towards sex, but also about redefining what it means to be human.
The Psychological Construction of Human Purpose
The sexual revolution rests on the idea that human fulfillment is achieved through personal, psychological happiness. This concept has its roots in the works of Rousseau and the Romantics, who emphasized the importance of individual emotions and desires. As a result, traditional sexual codes are seen as oppressive and restrictive, preventing individuals from flourishing.
The Politicization of Sex
The New Left played a significant role in politicizing sex, redefining oppression in psychological terms rather than economic ones. This led to debates about sex becoming a public issue, rather than a private matter. The stage was set for the sexual revolution to become a cultural phenomenon, with far-reaching consequences.
Separating Sex from Relationship
One of the hallmarks of the sexual revolution is the separation of sex from the context of a lifelong monogamous relationship. This idea is not new, with thinkers like William Godwin and artists like Shelley advocating for free love and open relationships. Today, this idea is mainstream, with many people viewing chaste monogamy as restrictive and outdated.
The Abolition of Modesty
The sexual revolution seeks to abolish the concept of modesty entirely, viewing it as an outdated and oppressive idea. This is evident in the way our culture mocks modesty, considering it ridiculous and prudish. The implications of this are far-reaching, with modesty being a key aspect of many cultures and societies.
Identity and the Sexual Revolution
The sexual revolution is not just about sex; it’s about identity. By making sexual desire the foundational element of human identity, debates about sex become debates about who we are as people. This has significant implications for Christians, who may object to certain sexual practices, but are actually objecting to certain identities.
The Impact on Society
The sexual revolution has had a profound impact on society, reshaping the meaning of sexual activity, family, parenthood, and relationships between the sexes. It has also dissolved the key difference between adults and children, with sex becoming a rite of passage to adulthood. As a result, Christians who hold traditional views on sex may find themselves at odds with the prevailing culture.
Religious Freedom and the Sexual Revolution
The sexual revolution presents a significant challenge to religious freedom, with societies that have been reshaped by the revolution viewing traditional Christian values as opposed to the common good. As a result, Christians may find their freedom of public exercise curtailed or even removed.
The Broader Implications
The sexual revolution is not just about sex; it’s about the broader implications of expressive individualism. This ideology prioritizes individual feelings and desires above all else, leading to a culture of self-centeredness and narcissism. The implications of this are far-reaching, with significant consequences for our society and our understanding of what it means to be human.
A Christian Response
As Christians, we must understand the sexual revolution and its implications for our faith. We must recognize that the revolution is not just about sex, but about identity and what it means to be human. We must also acknowledge that we are all implicated in this revolution, with our own desires and feelings often driving our actions. In response, we must seek to cultivate a biblical understanding of sex and relationships, one that prioritizes the well-being of others above our own desires.
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