Fear of moral decline is an expression that refers to a general belief among individuals who share a common religious background that their society is morally corrupting due to various factors. One such factor is the growing acceptance of sexual permissiveness. Religious people are often concerned about this issue because they believe that permissive attitudes towards sexual behavior can lead to immoral acts, including but not limited to adultery, promiscuity, rape, pornography, prostitution, incest, paedophilia, bestiality, and many more. They argue that these practices violate God's will and threaten human dignity. As a result, they strive to protect traditional values, promote abstinence before marriage, condemn homosexuality and premarital sex, and advocate for strict laws against sexual deviance.
Some religious groups believe that modern technologies like internet dating apps, social media platforms, and online porn have contributed to a decline in moral standards. These tools allow individuals to engage in casual relationships without commitment or consequences.
Religious leaders fear that children may be exposed to explicit images and content through the internet or peer pressure from friends with unhealthy attitudes towards sex. This could damage their psychological and emotional health. Thus, they encourage parents to monitor their kids' online activities and provide them with proper guidance on sexual education.
Some experts disagree with the view that sexual permissiveness leads to moral decay. They contend that it is simply a matter of personal choice and individual freedom. According to them, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to sex; thus, everyone should decide what works best for them. Moreover, they claim that conservative views on sex are outdated and harmful to mental well-being by creating shame, guilt, and anxiety around intimacy. Consequently, liberal individuals tend to reject religious teachings about sex and pursue their desires freely without restraint.
The relationship between fear of moral decline and sexual permissiveness remains controversial among scholars. While some see these factors as mutually exclusive, others argue that they reinforce each other. Regardless of this debate, all people must strive to create an environment where all individuals can express themselves safely without prejudice or judgment.