Religious sexual norms emphasize the importance of marital intimacy for procreation, and prioritize procreative acts above all others. This means that non-procreative sexual acts such as masturbation are considered sinful, and adultery is also forbidden under certain circumstances.
There are exceptions to this rule when it comes to consensual non-monogamy among married couples. These rules can be hard to follow, and some people may feel constrained by them, leading to frustration and resentment. On the other hand, consent-centered ethics emphasize that individuals have autonomy over their bodies and desires. They believe that sexual pleasure should be affirmed and explored, regardless of whether it leads to procreation. Thus, they reject traditional religious teachings about sex.
The tension between these two approaches is evident in society today, particularly among young adults who often challenge traditional religious teachings. Many argue that religion is outdated and no longer relevant to modern times, while others point out that religion has been an important source of guidance and tradition throughout history. Some suggest that both approaches have merits and could coexist if individuals are free to choose which one suits them best. Others argue that religious sexual norms limit individual freedom and lead to harmful practices like domestic abuse or homophobia. Still, others insist that pleasure-affirming ethics promote promiscuity and a lack of commitment.
One possible solution is to view sexual ethics from a secular perspective, wherein individuals decide on their own values without relying on external sources. This would allow for greater flexibility and personalization in terms of what kinds of relationships and behaviors are acceptable, as well as giving individuals more agency over their lives. Another option is for religions to update their teachings and become more inclusive towards diverse sexualities and gender identities. By doing so, they might be able to retain the positive aspects of their traditions while avoiding some of their negative implications.
There is no easy answer to this complex question, but continued dialogue between different groups can help us understand each other better and work towards a more equitable world.