The Social Construction of Sexuality

I am fascinated by this course - I wish I could take it! Christianity has had such an effect on the creation of our individual and collective reality that it's simply hard to contemplate it's impact.

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Christianity and the Social Construction of Sexuality

Directed by Pamela Dickey Young

This project examines the social construction of sex and sexuality in relation to the Christian religious tradition, primarily in the North American context.

Where Christianity has been the dominant religious tradition it has been a force in the construction of our views of sex and sexuality. This research program;

*Explores the explicit influences of Christianity on views of sex and sexuality through traditions, doctrines, historical theologies and so on

*Gauges the implicit influence of contemporary Christianity on these views through influence on law making and social opinion with particular emphasis on Canada

*Attends to the possibility of presenting revised views of sex and sexuality within Christianity

Although there are many diverse and progressive Christian points of view on sexuality, the public image of Christianity is as a negative force in retheorizing sexuality. Throughout, this research attends to the question of why this public image persists even in the face of much divergence within Christianity itself.

Discussion of the marriage of same-sex partners in Canada today is one example of an issue that has raised to the forefront the discussion of sexuality and religion, since opinions are being offered in the names of religious groups. Other views, often disguised as “secular,” are still implicitly grounded in particular interpretations of the Christian tradition. This research project contributes to ongoing discussions of sexuality and religion by seeking to clarify, both for academic and popular audiences, the diverse and varied ways in which Christianity is connected to this and other discussions that arise on sexuality and public policy.

For all inquiries, contact Linda Thomas, Administrative Assistant
Department of Religious Studies, Theological Hall 414
Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6

Tel.(613) 533 2106 Fax (613) 533 6558 Email thomaslm@post.queensu.ca

URL of this webpage: http://rels.queensu.ca/research.pdy.php