The concept of erotic faith is one that has been discussed in many forms throughout history, from religious texts to modern literature. It can be defined as trusting in pleasure, trusting in the ability of pleasure to bring meaning and joy into one's life. This idea challenges traditional notions of emotional discipline and control that are often emphasized in politics and society. Emotional discipline refers to the ability to regulate one's emotions, suppress negative feelings, and maintain composure in difficult situations.
This approach can lead to feelings of isolation, disconnection, and even depression. In contrast, erotic faith encourages individuals to surrender to their desires and experiences fully, allowing themselves to feel deeply and completely.
One way in which erotic faith challenges political demands for emotional discipline is through its emphasis on spontaneity. Politics often requires individuals to adhere to strict rules and procedures, and to prioritize stability and predictability above all else. Erotic faith suggests that life should also be characterized by playfulness, surprise, and openness to new possibilities. This can mean embracing risk and taking chances, rather than following a rigid script or plan. It can also involve letting go of preconceived ideas about how things "should" be, and instead approaching life with curiosity and wonder.
Another challenge that erotic faith poses to political demands for emotional discipline is its focus on interpersonal connection and intimacy. Politics often requires individuals to put their personal needs aside in order to achieve collective goals, leading to a sense of isolation and loneliness. Erotic faith encourages individuals to connect with others in a deep and authentic way, trusting that this will bring greater fulfillment and meaning to their lives. Intimate relationships provide an opportunity for people to share vulnerably and authentically, creating a space where they can truly know and be known by another person.
Erotic faith questions the idea that pleasure is something that must be earned or achieved through hard work. Rather, it suggests that pleasure is inherent in life, and is something to be sought out and experienced as a natural part of being human. This means rejecting the notion that happiness is always linked to success, achievement, or accomplishment, and instead embracing moments of joy and satisfaction as gifts to be received and savored. In doing so, erotic faith challenges traditional notions of power and control, which prioritize winning over losing, dominance over submission, and status over equality.
Erotic faith offers a powerful alternative to political demands for emotional discipline, emphasizing the importance of spontaneity, connection, and pleasure in our daily lives. By opening ourselves up to these experiences fully, we can create a richer and more fulfilling existence, free from the constraints of social norms and expectations.
How does erotic faith—trust in pleasure—challenge the political demand for emotional discipline?
Emotional discipline is a core principle of many forms of government and political ideology. It refers to a state of being that allows individuals to control their feelings, impulses, and desires by submitting them to social norms, cultural expectations, and legal restrictions. This can take various forms, from obeying rules and regulations to following dress codes and conforming to gender roles.