The way individuals see their bodies has always been influenced by religion, philosophy, culture, science, literature, art, media, and other factors.
Christianity teaches that humans have a soul and body; both are interdependent but distinct entities. This conceptualization of the human being can influence how people view their physical selves. In turn, this may affect their views of sexuality, which is often seen as a means for procreation.
There are also non-religious perspectives on bodily purpose, such as functionalism, which emphasize physical functionality over pleasure or spirituality.
Functionalism sees the body as a tool to be used for survival or reproduction, rather than something to enjoy or value in itself. According to this perspective, sex serves practical purposes like producing children or maintaining social bonds. Sexual pleasure is considered an optional side effect of these goals. This approach could lead to viewing sexual acts primarily through a utilitarian lens, rather than valuing them for themselves. It could also devalue non-reproductive activities like masturbation and homosexual relationships.
Some research suggests that treating sexuality primarily as functional rather than pleasurable has negative psychological consequences.
If people believe sex should serve reproductive ends, they may feel guilty about engaging in non-procreative sex. They may not see intimacy, closeness, or affection as important aspects of sexual interactions. Such beliefs can cause anxiety, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, and relationship difficulties.
Relatedly, seeing sexuality as functional rather than pleasurable can contribute to gender inequality. If men are valued for their ability to reproduce and women for their fertility, it may reinforce traditional gender roles and power dynamics. This could perpetuate harmful stereotypes and behaviors like male aggression, objectification, and violence against women.
Religious concepts of bodily purpose and functionalist ideas about sex have shaped how we think about our bodies and sexuality. While these views may be useful in some ways, they may also come with drawbacks. Treating sex purely as a means for procreation can deny its potential for joy, connection, and expression. Viewing sex only from this perspective can negatively affect mental health and contribute to social issues.
How can religiously framed concepts of bodily purpose inform sexual ethics, and what are the psychological consequences of viewing sexuality primarily as functional rather than pleasurable?
One way that religiously framed concepts of bodily purpose can inform sexual ethics is by emphasizing the importance of abstinence until marriage and promoting monogamy within a heterosexual marriage. This is often seen as a way to prevent premarital sexual encounters from leading to unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.