Sexual-Mind Revolution

Sex is a revolution in itself. Numerous social movements have taken place throughout History on behalf of sexual freedom and power. For instance according to Faramerz Dabhoiwala, Oxford University historian, the first sexual revolution took place in the 17^th century. At the time people in England decided that sex was a private matter and sex rules were to be determined by themselves instead of being controlled by the church and Government. Sexuality has always been questioned: everyone is interested in it. Either because you enjoy it or because you don´t truly comprehend it, sexuality is present in us not only as part of our nature but also as an opinion.

This article will not provide answers. Its aim is to raise questions,. Through these articles, I will dare you to discover what the mystery is in sexuality. What is it really about? Everyone speculates; it is for sure not an easy concept to establish, but difficulty mustn't prevent us from unleashing a revolution in our minds: let our ideas, fears and desires collide to grasp an authentic concept of sexuality.

What is it exactly? What are its parts? How does it work? We can delve into these questions from different fields such as biology, psychology, art and religion. It is undoubtedly a very complex subject which can, as part of human nature, be observed from a wide variety of angles.

It is essential to distinguish between sexuality and sex. The latter refers exclusively to physical practice, such as intercourse or masturbation; sexuality is, often, wrongly reduced to this term. Although it does involve the hormonal, nervous and reproductive systems, it cannot be understood solely from the physiological point of view. It also involves thoughts, feelings and attitudes.  It can be a way of expressing affection through the body. It is key in revealing certain unconscious aspects of the self. Art can conceive it as a source of inspiration in its creative processes. Not to mention the religious point of view on sexuality, which contemplates the unity it creates between two people and how it makes them closer to God.

The purpose of sexuality mustn't be dodged either. Is it just a matter of pleasure? Is reproduction its main aim? Or is it affection? Do we unconsciously try to solve psychological needs through it? Is it truly one of the most powerful inspirations in art? Do we need it to reach a spiritual union to others and to God?

Countless questions are left unanswered for the moment. We should not forget considering whether there are restrictions to who can express and fully live their sexuality, neither who is entitled to have sex and what the limits to its practice are. Not to mention if there actually is such thing as a universal concept of sexuality...

One final question: What is sexuality for you?

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Luc Garcia-Atance Villalonga

Many thanks to  Violeta Lanza Robles for her editing skills.