Summary
Contents
Subject index
This two-volume Handbook provides a major thematic overview of global sexualities, spanning each of the continents, and its study, which is both reflective and prospective, and includes traditional approaches and emerging themes. The Handbook offers a robust theoretical underpinning and critical outlook on current global, glocal, and 'new' sexualities and practices, whilst offering an extensive reflection on current challenges and future directions of the field. The broad coverage of topics engages with a range of theories, and maintains a multi-disciplinary framework. PART ONE: Understanding Sexuality: Epistemologies/Conceptual and Methodological Challenges; PART TWO: Enforcing and Challenging Sexual Norms; PART THREE: Interrogating/Undoing Sexual Categories; PART FOUR: Enhancement Practices and Sexual Markets/Industries; PART FIVE: Sexual Rights and Citizenship (And the Governance of Sexuality); PART SIX: Sexuality and Social Movements; and PART SEVEN: Language and Cultural Representation.
Abstinence: A Global Perspective
Abstinence: A Global Perspective
Introduction
Abstinence, whether temporary or lifelong, is a fascinating subject to most people because its practice has both detractors and admirers. The Catholic religion has elevated abstinence as a path to men's and women's higher, more spiritual nature. Traditionally, lust – or raw appetite not connected to procreative intentions – has been seen as sinful. Clergy must forego the pleasures of the flesh as part of their devotion to God. Purity of spirit is directly related to purity of body. In both Christianity and Islam, mainstream voices associate women's social value with their ‘chaste’ character. Women's virginity is often a requirement for marriage in Muslim societies; ...
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