Erotic devices are objects used to enhance pleasure during sexual activity. They come in many forms such as vibrators, dildos, anal beads, cock rings, nipple clamps, etc. These devices are designed to stimulate certain body parts and create sensations that can lead to orgasm.
They also encode cultural norms and values regarding power dynamics between genders and how people view their bodies. In this essay, we will explore the ways these devices reinforce patriarchal norms and the male gaze.
The first assumption encoded in these devices is that men are dominant and women are submissive. Many vibrator designs have a long handle which makes it possible for men to control the intensity and speed of stimulation. This design objectifies women's bodies and reduces them to passive objects whose pleasure must be sought out and controlled by men. It also reinforces traditional gender roles where men are supposed to initiate sex and take charge while women should comply and obey. Similarly, some strap-on dildoes are designed to be worn around the balls to increase masculine power and dominance. Wearing one implies that men have the right to penetrate and make decisions about sex, while women are there to be penetrated and serviced.
Cock rings are meant to restrict blood flow to the penis, making the man last longer in bed and giving him more control over the duration of intercourse. The fact that it is designed specifically for men shows that men are seen as the ones who need to 'last longer', while women must simply endure without complaint.
Another implicit assumption embedded in erotic devices is that men are visually oriented and women are aestheticized objects. Vibrators often come with decorative patterns and colors that highlight certain parts of the body. They suggest that men like to look at and admire women's bodies rather than engage with them intimately. This objectification can lead to unrealistic expectations about female appearance and performance during sex. Women may feel pressure to conform to these standards or risk being rejected by their partners. Moreover, nipple clamps are designed to enhance sexual stimulation but they also imply that breasts exist primarily for male pleasure and gratification. They reinforce the idea that women's bodies are not their own but belong to men who get to decide how they will be used.
Erotic devices promote heterosexual norms and marginalize non-normative sexualities. Many vibrator designs are shaped like phalluses which suggests that only penetration is pleasurable and validates the notion that women should only desire penetration. This excludes people who enjoy other forms of stimulation such as anal play, mutual masturbation or oral sex. Similarly, cock rings restrict blood flow to the genitals suggesting that orgasm is achieved through penile thrusting alone. This ignores the reality that many people experience different types of climaxes and pleasure. This limitation makes it difficult for queer individuals to find products that meet their needs.
Erotic devices encode implicit assumptions about gender roles, visual culture, and traditional sexuality. These assumptions perpetuate harmful stereotypes and limit our understanding of what constitutes pleasure in a relationship. We must challenge these norms and create new devices that celebrate diversity and equality in bedroom activities.
How do erotic devices encode implicit assumptions about authority, dominance, and desire?
Erotic devices such as handcuffs, whips, leather restraints, blindfolds, and chokers are commonly used by individuals who engage in BDSM (bondage/discipline, domination/submission, and sadism/masochism) activities for their sexual gratification. These items are often regarded as symbols of power, control, and submission that can reinforce dominant/submissive relationships in intimate encounters.