The concept of "boundaries" refers to the limits that individuals establish between their personal spaces and those of others, particularly regarding interpersonal interactions such as sex, intimacy, or relationships. These boundaries can be physical, emotional, psychological, intellectual, spiritual, or cultural, among others.
Some studies suggest that individuals who adhere to rigid political or religious belief systems may redefine these boundaries through ideology, which affects how they understand themselves and interact sexually or romantically. In this sense, it is argued that sex and sexuality are subject to the same rigid ideological patterns that influence all aspects of social life.
Conservative movements tend to promote traditional gender roles and emphasize heterosexual relationships; thus, they seek to impose strict sexual norms that exclude homoeroticism, pornography, non-procreative acts, etc. Conversely, progressive movements prioritize autonomy, freedom, equality, plurality, and tolerance; hence, they support sexual experimentation, free love, polyamory, etc. Both extremes create erotic borders that limit or encourage the expression of desire and pleasure beyond those imposed by the dominant social order.
It is possible to analyze this phenomenon from a historical perspective, starting with the emergence of Christianity in the Roman Empire. At that time, many religions allowed sexual practices outside marriage, but Christianity opposed them, imposing the primacy of monogamy and procreation over pleasure and eroticism. The Church gradually gained power until the 12th century, when it established laws prohibiting sodomy, fornication, prostitution, incest, rape, etc., as well as punishing adultery, abortion, contraception, masturbation, etc. These rules were not only applied within the church but also in society at large, establishing an authoritarian framework.
There have been different ways to redefine boundaries regarding sexual relations, such as feminist theories of female liberation, LGBTQ+ movements, sexual revolution, and more recently, online dating and sex apps. While some ideologies open up new spaces for exploring pleasure and intimacy, others restrict them through religious beliefs or moral injunctions.
Islamic fundamentalists see homosexuality as a sin and consider women second-class citizens who should be submissive to men; consequently, they impose strict rules on gender roles, dress codes, public behavior, marriages, etc. Similarly, some Hindu groups insist on arranged marriages, while some evangelical Christians reject premarital sex and advocate abstinence.
Ideology can shape our erotic borders by influencing how we understand ourselves and our relationships with others; therefore, individuals must reflect on these patterns to make conscious choices about their desires and feelings. It is crucial to recognize that all sexual expressions are valid if consensual and enjoyable, regardless of any social norm. By doing so, people can overcome rigid ideological barriers and explore their most profound selves without fear of judgments or stigma.
How do erotic boundaries shift when individuals align themselves with rigid ideological movements?
It is believed that erotic boundaries may shift as individuals who identify with rigid ideological movements begin to prioritize their beliefs over personal relationships and experiences. The alignment of oneself with such movements can lead to a narrowing of perspectives and an increased focus on conformity, which can result in the suppression of one's individual desires and needs. This can create tension between the self and others, leading to the potential for sexual boundaries to become blurred or non-existent.