Sexual Revolution free essay sample

It can argued that the original sexual revolution took place after World War I during the â€Å"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). We will write a custom essay sample on Sexual Revolution or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page 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 â€Å"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 risque and the concept of â€Å"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 capture their attention. It is important not to overlook one of the key factors in the shaping of the sexual revolution, the liberation of women. Women were increasingly viewed as equal individuals, becoming independent. Importantly, allowing women to become more financially independent. The women’s movement also contributed greatly to the redefining of a women’s sexuality, no longer did all women feel inferior to men. They were allowed to make their own decisions, and their voices were heard. The feminist movement of the early 1960s sought to eradicate the sexual objectification of women, by challenging the traditional norms about female sexuality and lesbianism. Feminist ideology centered on the notion that sexual liberation could be used to gain power back from men. The sexual liberation of women has changed the role of women in society in a positive way. While many positive outcomes have spawned from the sexual liberation of women, today some negative long term effects exist, increased exposure to sexual transmitted diseases such as HIV/Aids, increased rate of children being born to young and single mother, incapable of providing a good life, and the belief by some that women are now depicted in an overtly sexual way too often. The sexual revolution has given rise to the prominence of â€Å"out† homosexuals and helped to increase cultural acceptance of gays, lesbians, and transsexuals. The Gay Rights Movement started in the late 1960s and drastically changed the meaning of being gay. Prior to the sexual revolution it was extremely uncommon for a gay individual to â€Å"come out;† the majority of homosexuals went to great lengths to conceal their sexual preference, in turn forcing many to live a lie. The movement took a turn for the better when â€Å"coming out† became a unifying statement about one’s sexual preference and used as an empowerment tool. Similarly, lesbians began â€Å"coming out† during the feminist movement. The long-term effects of the sexual revolution regarding ones sexual preference has changed lives. Gays and lesbians can get married in some states, having the same martial rights as heterosexual couples. However, while great strides have been taken to gain equality, some homosexuals still face ridicule when they decide to â€Å"come out†. Although the sexual revolution has positively changed the meaning of being gay a great deal, it will take more time for everyone to consider these men and women equal regardless of their sexual preference. The long-term effects of the sexual revolution can be viewed today by; the depiction of sex in the media, the sexual liberation of women, and the prevalence and acceptance of homosexual relationships. Prior to the sexual revolution it would have been considered poor taste to use â€Å"sex† to sell a product, today it is common place for sexual content to drive ad campaigns. It is also very common to have sex be the focus of primetime shows or to be featured on the news. The sexual revolution paved the way for the sexual liberation of women, today women have used their sexual equality to empower themselves in other areas of life such as the political spectrum and the work force. It is clear that the sexual revolution has also paved the way towards the acceptance and equality of homosexuals. The sexual revolution will forever have a lasting impact on society.