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Assignment 08

In chapter four, part four of Foucault book, the History of Sex, he goes into an idea he calls, “a technology of sex”. During the 19th century, sex was considered a taboo and was only spoken about in private. Sex was also somewhat connected to the church as those that committed sexual acts had to tell their sins (sexual acts) in explicit detail to a priest to be cleanse of their sins. The study of medicine began increasing as more and more people were interested in one’s sexuality and the activities they’ve engaged in. This increased study  of medicine lead to the development of the idea that sex was hereditary. Many believed the one’s sexual drive was passed down from one generation to another and this idea further the separation between bourgeoisie and the commoners. Being very sexual or having a sex drive was considered somewhat unhealthy and it was best to eradicate these traits and bloodlines. The bourgeoisie wanted to solidified they’re power and place in society by making their people seem like the superior race or group. The higher ups ensure they stayed in power generations forward by making offspring that consisted of other bourgeoisie. Those in the higher class with certain traits that were considered favorable were placed with others like them to produced offspring’s that had all of the traits, this method ensured that the bloodline was going to be preserved and pure, not mixing with others (commoners). They viewed those below them as inferior and without class and needed to clearly show the difference between them and the others. By making sure these babies that were produced were pure they’re able to extended their rule generations forward. Foucault makes the point of how sexuality is used to divided the masses and make a few selective ones on top; it is used as a method to control the people.