Perv: The Sexual Deviant in All of Us

Perv examines human sexuality and sexual deviance through a scientific and historical lens. Author Jesse Bering combines research from psychology, biology, anthropology and other fields to explore the full spectrum of human sexual behavior and preferences. The book challenges common assumptions about what constitutes "normal" versus "deviant" sexual interests. Through case studies and scientific evidence, Bering analyzes how culture, evolution, and neuroscience shape human sexuality and sexual morality. Bering addresses controversial topics including fetishes, paraphilias, orientation, and taboos, while maintaining an empirical approach. The work includes historical perspectives on how societies have viewed and treated sexual minorities over time. This examination of human sexuality raises questions about the nature of desire, identity, and moral judgment. The book suggests that the line between "normal" and "deviant" is less clear than commonly believed, prompting readers to examine their own assumptions about sexual behavior and ethics.

Readers appreciate Bering's research-based yet accessible approach to taboo topics, with many noting his use of humor to discuss difficult subjects. The book's examination of sexual psychology and evolution resonated with readers seeking to understand diverse forms of human sexuality without judgment. Readers liked: - Clear explanations of complex research - Personal anecdotes that humanize the science - Non-judgmental tone when discussing paraphilias - Historical context for sexual norms Readers disliked: - Too much focus on extreme examples - Some attempts at humor fell flat - Occasional meandering narrative - Limited practical applications One reader noted: "Bering manages to make statistical analysis and evolutionary psychology engaging without sensationalizing." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (220+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (150+ ratings) Most critical reviews centered on the book's structure rather than its content, with readers wanting more cohesion between chapters.

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🔎 Author Jesse Bering is an evolutionary psychologist who has worked as a professor at the University of Arkansas and Queen's University Belfast. 💭 The book challenges readers to question why they consider certain sexual behaviors "normal" while others are labeled "deviant," exploring how these distinctions are often culturally determined. 📚 "Perv" won the 2014 Samuel Johnson Prize for Non-Fiction and was praised for its blend of scientific research, historical accounts, and humor. 🧬 The text examines how evolutionary biology has shaped human sexuality, including how certain paraphilias (unusual sexual interests) may have developed over time. 🌍 Bering discusses how different cultures throughout history have accepted sexual practices that would be considered taboo in modern Western society, highlighting the relativity of sexual norms.