Science In The Bedroom: A History Of Sex Research

by Vern L. Bullough

Overview

From the first serious sex study ever undertaken (in France in 1830 with a group of prostitutes) to the latterday work of Masters and Johnson, this book traces the history of more than a century of sex research. Bullough addresses the difficulties and controversies in an area of research that has never been allowed to fully control its own agenda. Using examples, he describes the forces that have impinged serious research, from free love hippies and religious zealots to governments trying to support stands on public morality.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780465072590
Publisher:	Basic Books
Publication date:	05/19/1995
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	384
Product dimensions:	5.38(w) x 8.00(h) x (d)

Editorial Reviews

Bullough ( Sin, Sickness, and Sanity ) brings his customary mix of lively prose and balanced scholarship to this enlightening history of sex research. Along with Sigmund Freud, Havelock Ellis, Alfred Kinsey and William Masters and Virginia Johnson, important but neglected female researchers Katharine Davis (1860-1935) and Clelia Mosher (1863-1940) are among the pioneer sexologists profiled. Magnus Hirschfeld (1868-1935), a wealthy German homosexual physician who fought for repeal of anti-gay laws also receives his due. Bullough, a sociologist and leading sex researcher, crams in a wealth of information on marriage manuals, the impact of contraceptives on sexual mores, lesbianism, child sexuality, prostitution, pornography, transsexualism, cross-dressing, free-love advocates and much else. He also weaves into his narrative such figures as Oscar Wilde; Richard Burton, the British explorer and collector of erotica; Wilhelm Reich; Herbert Marcuse; and Michel Foucault. (June)

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

Bullough, himself a distinguished sex researcher and sociologist, has written a clear history of the controversial field. He profiles pioneer sexologists, discusses the sociological forces driving investigation as well as the impact of the research, and addresses challenges of the field today. Balanced, informed, and enlightening, this work deserves wide circulation. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews