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Single Idea 20890

[filed under theme 25. Social Practice / F. Life Issues / 5. Sexual Morality ]

Full Idea

What is the reason for demanding permanence in the relationship of sexual partners when we do not see such permanence as being importance to other human relationships?

Gist of Idea

Why do sexual relationships need permanence, if other relationships don't?

Source

Vincent C. Punzo (Morality and Human Sexuality [1969], p.220)

Book Ref

'Ethics in Practice (2nd Ed)', ed/tr. LaFollette,Hugh [Blackwell 2002], p.220


A Reaction

The distinction may not be that simple. 'Loyalty' must certainly be mentioned. Friends can legitimately drift apart, but to desert a close friend at a time of great need might be as great a crime as adultery. When is loyalty particularly needed?


The 14 ideas with the same theme [social issues concerning sexual relationships]:

A lover using force is a villain, but a seducer is much worse, because he corrupts character [Socrates, by Xenophon]
While sex is very pleasant, it should be in secret, as it looks contemptible [Plato]
Animals have not been led into homosexuality, because they value pleasure very little [Plutarch]
Lust involves pleasure, and also the sense of power in pleasing others [Hobbes]
Would humanity still exist if sex wasn't both desired and pleasurable? [Schopenhauer]
Man and woman are deeply strange to one another! [Nietzsche]
We all need sexual secrets! [Cioran]
Why do sexual relationships need permanence, if other relationships don't? [Punzo]
Does engaging in sexual intercourse really need no more thought than playing tennis? [Punzo]
Rape of children is dreadful, but no one thinks children should have a right of consent [Foa]
A rape disregards the status of being a person - but so does all assault [Foa]
If men should lust and women shouldn't, that makes rape the prevalent sexual model [Foa]
Sexual morality doesn't require monogamy, but it needs a group of sensible regulations [Kekes]
Prostitution is wrong because it hardens the soul, since soul and body are one [Scruton]