Sexual norms are cultural expectations about what is considered appropriate or inappropriate sexual behavior within a given society. These norms can be influenced by various factors, including religion, culture, gender roles, social class, age, ethnicity, and personal beliefs. Sexual behaviors are also regulated by laws and policies that vary from one country to another. Structures like families and communities have an impact on how people think about sex and sexuality. In this article, I will discuss how the structural organization of closed systems influences sexual norms and behaviors.
Closed systems refer to societies where there are no external interactions, communication, or trade with other societies. These societies tend to be isolated and self-sufficient, which means they rely solely on their resources for survival. Closed systems include remote communities, islands, and tribes living in the jungle. The structure of these societies affects the way people see and perceive sexuality.
In closed systems, sexual activity is seen as procreative rather than recreational. This means that sex is mainly for making babies rather than having fun or experimenting with different partners. People in such societies are usually monogamous because they need to protect their genes and preserve their lineage.
In closed systems, marriages are often arranged by elders or parents. Parents choose who their children should marry based on family ties and economic status. Women may be married off at a young age to older men to ensure security and stability. Men are expected to provide for their families financially and physically, while women take care of household chores and raise children. Divorce and adultery are rare in such societies since marriage is considered a lifelong commitment.
The lack of interaction between closed societies and others also contributes to the spread of misinformation about sexuality. People in such societies do not have access to information about contraceptives, STDs, or safe sex practices. This makes them more susceptible to diseases and unplanned pregnancies. They may also believe in myths and superstitions related to sexuality, leading to harmful behavior like witch hunts or abuse.
Structural organization has a significant impact on sexual norms and behaviors within closed systems. Sexuality is highly regulated and controlled, with little room for creativity or individual expression.
There are exceptions where people break free from these rules and engage in risky sexual behavior, but this happens rarely.
How does the structural organization of closed systems influence sexual norms and behaviors?
The social structure of a community greatly influences its sexual norms and behaviors. Generally speaking, people who live in small communities with tightly knit families tend to have more conservative views on sexuality than those living in large metropolitan areas where they have less contact with their extended family members. In such communities, traditional gender roles are often stricter, and individuals are expected to marry within their religious or cultural group.