The Nine Sexual Revolutions in Human History
Throughout human history, I categorize the evolution of sexual culture into **nine significant sexual revolutions**. In the earliest moments of humanity, sexual relationships could exist among close kin, including mother-son and father-daughter pairings. This is evidenced by ancient Greek mythology, suggesting that the concept of the *Oedipus complex* stemmed from this fundamental emotional connection. Contrary to some sexologists who argue that early humans lacked awareness of morality, I firmly disagree.
Emotional and Aesthetic Origins
I believe that human emotions and aesthetics emerged as soon as humanity did, a notion supported by Darwin's writings. In those times, a mother-child relationship embodied pure love, blending familial bonds with romantic affection—though clearly, the objects of love were vastly different by today's standards.
The First Sexual Revolution
The first sexual revolution marked the emergence of the nuclear family, birthing moral frameworks and delineating familial love from romantic love. This separation gave rise to sibling marriages, as seen in Chinese mythology with figures like Fuxi and Nuwa. However, I remain skeptical about these tales, as they imply these characters existed in different eras, with Nuwa symbolizing creation and Fuxi representing the dawn of civilization. Some scholars suggest that Nuwa and Fuxi may be culturally symbolic rather than individual beings, representing two different clans united through marriage.
The Second Sexual Revolution
As humanity progressed, the second sexual revolution introduced the family structure of *Punalua*, allowing sexual orientations to extend beyond close kin, ultimately creating a clearer ethical framework within families.
The Third Sexual Revolution
The advent of *pair marriage* marked the third revolution, transitioning sexual activities from communal practices to private events. It became increasingly evident that sexual intimacy now bore a distinct difference from other biological functions and that genuine romantic connections were beginning to take shape.
Characteristics of the Fourth and Fifth Revolutions
The fourth revolution witnessed the institutionalization of polygamous relationships, marking the control of sexual dynamics by structures governing society and heralding patriarchal systems. Subsequently, the fifth revolution introduced monogamous relationships, largely influenced by Christianity in Europe. This structure confined sexual relationships within marriage, resulting in societal condemnation of extramarital affairs and incest, representing an evolution in sexual morality.
Sixth to Ninth Sexual Revolutions
The sixth sexual revolution produced love as a distinct entity separated from mere physicality, highlighting its spiritual significance. Notably, this shift is often recognized around the Renaissance, viewed as another revolution that liberated sexuality from oppressive religious constraints.
The eighth sexual revolution, occurring in the 20th century, initiated a widespread sexual liberation movement originating from Western societies and spreading globally, transforming sex into a topic of discourse, art, and revolutionary ideology. Following this, the ninth revolution emerged in the age of digital connectivity, leading to virtual expressions of sexuality, including online relationships and experiences.
Understanding Sexuality Through Civilization
Should we accept this framework of human history, we must acknowledge that the realm of sexuality seems to be condensing, gradually overshadowed by broader societal dynamics. Freud's concept of *libido* highlights sexual energy as a fundamental life force, while traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes the kidneys as vital to one’s life essence.
Ultimately, while human civilization may seem to have increasingly restrained our sexual expression, the internet offers a space to reconnect with previously stifled instincts. It provides a realm where suppressed life dynamics can re-emerge, albeit adorned with the complexities of modern civilization. In this new digital landscape, we navigate the balance between civility and our innate urge for erotic freedom, defining our place within this ninth sexual revolution.