Sexual Variance in Society and History

Sexual Variance in Society and History examines how different cultures and time periods have viewed and responded to various forms of sexual behavior. The book traces attitudes toward sexuality from ancient civilizations through modern times. Bullough analyzes historical documents, medical texts, legal records, and religious writings to document changing perspectives on sexual norms and deviations. The research spans multiple continents and cultures, including ancient Greece, medieval Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Each chapter focuses on specific aspects of sexual variance, from homosexuality and prostitution to cross-dressing and celibacy. The work includes extensive citations and primary source material while remaining accessible to general readers. The book demonstrates how definitions of "normal" and "deviant" sexual behavior are largely social constructs that shift across time and place. This historical perspective provides context for understanding modern attitudes and debates about sexuality.

Readers note this academic text offers extensive historical documentation of sexual practices across cultures, though some find it dense and dry. The detailed citations and scholarly approach receive mentions as strengths. Likes: - Comprehensive coverage of historical attitudes toward sexuality - Inclusion of non-Western cultures and perspectives - Clear organization by time period and region - Thorough bibliography and research Dislikes: - Academic writing style can be difficult to follow - Some outdated terminology (published 1976) - Limited discussion of female sexuality compared to male - Index could be more detailed Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (12 ratings) Amazon: No ratings available Several reviewers on Goodreads mention using it as a reference text for research. One reader notes it "fills important gaps in sexual history documentation." Another describes it as "more encyclopedia than narrative." No professional reviews or ratings were found on other major review sites.

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🔖 Published in 1976, this groundbreaking work was one of the first comprehensive historical studies of human sexuality across different cultures and time periods. 🎓 Author Vern Bullough was not only a historian but also a practicing nurse, helping him bring both medical and social perspectives to his research on sexuality. 📚 The book challenged the then-common notion that sexual attitudes have remained constant throughout history, demonstrating instead how they've evolved dramatically across different societies. 🌍 The text covers an impressive geographical and temporal range, examining sexual practices from ancient Mesopotamia through medieval Europe to modern Asia. ⚕️ Bullough's research helped establish the academic field of sexology and contributed to the destigmatization of various sexual behaviors by placing them in historical context.