Sexuality is a fundamental function of human nature. This course will focus on the science of sex and highlight several important areas. We will examine how our sexuality is shaped by nature and nurture. We will investigate why and how men and women differ in their sexuality. We will discuss how homosexuality can exist and we will explore less understood sexual desires. We will discuss the mechanisms behind sexual arousal and sexual dysfunctions. We will examine the causes and consequences of both sexual assault and harassment. Finally, we will discuss the prevalence and consequences of sexually transmitted diseases.
It is possible that some of you will be uncomfortable with certain topics (for example sexual assault or harassment). In general, however, the possibility that you will be uncomfortable is low. Students who participate in surveys on trauma and sexuality do not find their involvement in these surveys more distressing than regular life events, and can find it emotionally rewarding to take part in these surveys (Yeater et al., 2012). This module will not go as far as asking you about your traumatic experiences, but rather inform you about findings related to this topic. From my experiences with hundreds of students in the past it is unlikely that students will be uncomfortable with being part of this module and consider it beneficial.
Read the below Syllabus very carefully (chapters refer to the suggested reading below). If there is a topic that you consider too uncomfortable to hear about I encourage you to NOT take the module.
14/10/22 | The Evolution of Sex (Chapters 1 & 2) I will explain why two sexes have evolved in most species and why, from an evolutionary point of view, this has been more successful than one sex as it leads to recombination and variation of genetic material. I will also discuss which strategies are, evolutionary, the best for mating and reproduction. |
21/10/22 | Sexual Differentiation (Chapters 6 & 7) Most males and females clearly differ in their gender identity, gender behaviours and sexual attractions. I will outline how biological factors, in particular androgens, affect these differences and whether influences of nature are more important than influences of nurture. |
28/10/22 | Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (Chapter 14) We will discuss how homosexuality is expressed, how early signs of homosexuality may develop, and what the possible biological correlates, if not causes, are. We will further discuss how the desire to transition one’s biological sex to the other gender relates to sexual orientation. |
04/11/22 | Atypical Sexuality (Chapter 15) Some people have less commonly understood preferences, for example fetishes, masochism, sadism, paedophilia, and the self. We will discuss whether such preferences are comparable with a sexual orientation towards adults, and to what degree they are indeed motivated by sexual desires. |
11/11/22 | Sexual Harassment (Chapters 18 & 13) Amongst the most problematic sexual behaviours are sexual assault and harassment. We will discuss their prevalence, who is most likely a victim or perpetrator, to what degree social attitudes influence the perception of these behaviours, and how they affect the psychological well-being of the people involved. |
18/11/22 | MCQ I (on 17th) & Sex and Culture (No Specific Chapter - 16:00) Cultures can differ in the ways that they express their sexuality. We will discuss to what degree these differences suggest that any sexual behaviours found in our society are socially induced or whether these cultural differences are indicators of different evolutionary adaptations. |
25/11/22 | Attraction and Attractiveness (Chapter 8) To be a successful sex partner, you must, in most instances, attract a person. This lecture will explore the different biological, physical, and psychological ingredients that make us, and our potential partners, more or less attractive, and point to where societies differ in these preferences. |
02/12/22 | Sexual Arousal and Dysfunctions (Chapters 3, 4, & 16) Our sex drive and sexual orientation have, on a physiological level, the purpose to enhance sexual arousal and prepare for reproduction. We will discuss the ultimate functions of sexual arousal, particular body regions important for arousal, and the many ways in which arousal can be interrupted or enhanced. |
09/12/22 | Sexually Transmitted Diseases (Chapter 17) When humans seek physical contact for sex, other organisms exploit the opportunity to spread their own genetic make-up. We will discuss several sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, and point to their prevalence and mechanisms for preventions and cures. |
16/12/22 | MCQ II (on 15th) & Special Topics (16:00) This lecture will wrap up with a special topic. Likely I will bring in trans men (female to male). They will discuss with class how it is to be transgender, and live with someone who is transgender. The discussion will be accompanied by a documentary on trans men made for Channel 4. |
TBA | Revision Lecture To be announced. |