Sexual Revolution
Long-Term Effects of the Sexual Revolution
It can argued that the original sexual revolution took place after World War I during the “roaring 20s” but for the purposes of this paper the time period between 1960 and 1980 is the time period where the most significant changes took place in regards to the way sex was viewed by western society. During this time period sexual liberation was showcased in the form of increased acceptance of homosexuality, emergence of non-monogamous relationships, availability of contraception’s such as birth control and abortion, and the prevalence of pre-marital sexual relations. The long-term effects of the sexual revolution are: the depiction of sex in the media, the sexual liberation of women, and the prevalence and acceptance of homosexual relationships.
The long-term effects of sexual liberation can be viewed in the form of media. What is considered appropriate in media is still debatable today, prior to the sexual revolution it would be unheard of to have a show air on prime time depicting the life of a gay couple (Modern Family) or a show strictly about a misogynistic lothario (Californication). The origins of the sexual revolution trace back to the fact that the young people of the time refused to adhere to the norms that their parents had put into place. Instead of living a life rich in Christian values and morals they rebelled and created a concept where “free love” and understanding were more important. Music also had lasting effects throughout the sexual revolution, creating a sound track for the changing times. Advertising became more risqué and the concept of “sex sells” is thrust into the American lexicon. Beginning during the sexual revolution and still a tactic today, pretty women are used to get a man’s attention in marketing. Today it is not uncommon to see ads on TV or in magazines about contraceptives or sexual performance drugs. Not much is taboo anymore and sex is constantly being used to gain viewers and
It can argued that the original sexual revolution took place after World War I during the “roaring 20s” but for the purposes of this paper the time period between 1960 and 1980 is the time period where the most significant changes took place in regards to the way sex was viewed by western society. During this time period sexual liberation was showcased in the form of increased acceptance of homosexuality, emergence of non-monogamous relationships, availability of contraception’s such as birth control and abortion, and the prevalence of pre-marital sexual relations. The long-term effects of the sexual revolution are: the depiction of sex in the media, the sexual liberation of women, and the prevalence and acceptance of homosexual relationships.
The long-term effects of sexual liberation can be viewed in the form of media. What is considered appropriate in media is still debatable today, prior to the sexual revolution it would be unheard of to have a show air on prime time depicting the life of a gay couple (Modern Family) or a show strictly about a misogynistic lothario (Californication). The origins of the sexual revolution trace back to the fact that the young people of the time refused to adhere to the norms that their parents had put into place. Instead of living a life rich in Christian values and morals they rebelled and created a concept where “free love” and understanding were more important. Music also had lasting effects throughout the sexual revolution, creating a sound track for the changing times. Advertising became more risqué and the concept of “sex sells” is thrust into the American lexicon. Beginning during the sexual revolution and still a tactic today, pretty women are used to get a man’s attention in marketing. Today it is not uncommon to see ads on TV or in magazines about contraceptives or sexual performance drugs. Not much is taboo anymore and sex is constantly being used to gain viewers and