John Francis McDermott Ordine dei libri

The twentieth century has seen a significant shift in attitudes toward sex compared to the nineteenth century, where discussions were limited and largely focused on procreation. In contrast, contemporary society engages openly with the subject, driven by the spirit of scientific inquiry that began to dismantle taboos. While earlier thinkers did not prioritize the study of sex, the rise of scientific knowledge, particularly in biology, has fostered curiosity about bodily functions, including sex. Key figures such as Havelock Ellis and Sigmund Freud have profoundly influenced this change, with Ellis emphasizing the importance of understanding sex's role in society and Freud proposing that love is central to human activity. Their work, along with contributions from social philosophers like Bertrand Russell, has led to the recognition of sex as a fundamental aspect of human nature. Despite advancements in knowledge and some dissemination of findings, there remains a need for broader access to information about sex for the general public. The editor has compiled various papers addressing different aspects of the sex question, aiming to present a diverse range of perspectives rather than a singular editorial viewpoint.