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Assignment 08

In Part Four of Chapter Four: Periodization of “History of Sexuality” by Michel Foucault, Foucault makes claims regarding the repressive thoughts, actions, and origins of sexuality (28). Foucault describes this as a “technology of sex”. At first, sex was more privatized; it was something that was not discussed among public ears. However, this increased privatization led to a greater number of discourses regarding the topic of sexuality, such as the ones that occurred throughout the nineteenth century that Foucault examines.
The structure of sexuality was devised by the bourgeoisie, who were the ruling class at the time. They had recognized the importance of sexuality, considering it a means of continuing and protecting their lineage as opposed to being a means to repress members of other walks of life. To them, sex was closely associated with health and an individuals’ overall wellbeing. It was due to this belief that discourses regarding sex and sexuality were more promoted than before. In addition to the bourgeoisie, other areas within society were also responsible for attitudes and beliefs that were commonly held towards sexuality. This includes the pedagogy, medicinal groups, and economic associations. These groups were mainly focused on examining the sexuality of children and women, and how this function can be used to regulate the births of future generations.

Foucault’s writing reflects his belief that the church was the primary origin of sexual repression. It was when the Catholic and Christian church implemented the practice of confession that we begin to see the characterization of sexuality. Contrary to popular belief, it was the institutions and practices that were devoted to sexual cognition that were responsible for forming these types of repressions. Technologies of sex were produces in the wake of these functions.

What I am confused bout is Foucault’s reinstatement of the repressive hypothesis. It is stated that it was economically motivated, but it also regarded as a power balance.