David Hartmann, PhD

Dr. David Hartmann is a leading researcher and author in the field of Sexual Erotic Media & Literature, with over 18 years of interdisciplinary experience exploring sexuality, eroticism, and media representation. His work integrates literary analysis, media studies, and empirical research to provide comprehensive insights into human erotic expression across cultures and media formats. Dr. Hartmann is recognized for translating complex research into accessible resources for academics, educators, and the public.

Specialization

Sexual Erotic Media Analysis
Erotic Literature Criticism
Cultural Sexuality Studies
Media Psychology of Eroticism
Adult Entertainment Industry Research

Education

2001–2005: BA in Comparative Literature, University of California, Berkeley
2005–2007: MA in Media Studies, New York University
2007–2012: PhD in Sexuality and Culture, University of Chicago

Professional Experience

2012–2016: Research Fellow, Institute for Erotic Media Studies, Berlin
2016–2020: Senior Lecturer in Sexual Media & Literature, University of Amsterdam
2020–Present: Director of Research, Global Erotic Media Initiative
Consultant for adult media producers, providing content research and cultural analysis

Research Cases and Project Highlights

Case Study: Digital Erotic Media and Adolescent Perceptions (2018–2019) Investigated how exposure to erotic digital content shapes adolescent understanding of intimacy. Conducted a cross-cultural survey (n=4,500) in Europe and North America. Result: Identified correlations between critical media literacy education and healthier sexual attitudes.
Project: Erotic Literature and Emotional Intelligence (2020) Analyzed 120 contemporary erotic novels to study narrative structures that enhance empathy and sexual self-awareness. Outcome: Developed a model linking erotic storytelling to improved relational communication skills.
Study: Adult Film Industry Labor and Ethics (2021–2022) Mixed-methods research combining interviews with performers and producers (n=200). Result: Published guidelines for ethical production practices, widely adopted by European adult studios.

Selected Quotes

"Erotic media is not merely entertainment; it functions as a cultural lens through which we negotiate intimacy, desire, and identity." — David Hartmann, 2019

"Understanding the psychological impact of erotic literature can enhance empathy and emotional literacy in both readers and society at large." — David Hartmann, 2020

Selected Publications

Hartmann, D. (2020). "Erotic Narratives and Emotional Literacy: A Cross-Cultural Study." Journal of Sexual Culture, 15(2), 134–159.
Hartmann, D. & Lee, J. (2018). "Digital Erotica and Adolescent Attitudes Toward Sex." Media Psychology Review, 22(1), 55–78.
Hartmann, D. (2021). "Ethics and Labor in the Adult Film Industry." International Journal of Erotic Media Studies, 9(3), 201–227.

Professional Memberships

International Association for the Study of Sexuality and Culture (IASSC)
Media Psychology Research Network
European Erotic Literature Society

Participation in International Projects

Lead Researcher, UNESCO "Media Literacy and Sexual Health" Initiative (2019–2022)
Advisor, European Erotic Literature Archive Project (2020–Present)
Consultant, Global Adult Media Ethics Program (2021–Present)

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

TEDx Talk: “Erotic Media as Cultural Insight” (2020)
Guest on BBC World Service: “The Psychology of Erotic Literature”
Featured in the “Sexual Culture Podcast” discussing digital erotica and ethics

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Hartmann brings a rare combination of rigorous empirical research, literary analysis, and cross-cultural insights. His work emphasizes ethical representation, informed consent, and media literacy, providing tools for educators, policymakers, and creators to engage responsibly with erotic content.