Perversion- 1) “The alteration of something from its original course, meaning, or state to a distortion or corruption of what was first intended.”-
2) “Sexual behavior or desire that is considered abnormal or unacceptable.” Both from Oxforddictionaries.com
Homosexuals used to be considered the archtypical perverts, distorting sexual desire for the opposite sex into desire for persons of the same sex. Until very recently, gays and lesbians lived in a shadow world. Few people admitted to knowing a homosexual, much less admitting to being one. That has all changed in the past few decades. Now, it seems “coming out” has become a staple of popular culture. Admitting to being homosexual, while a profound statement to the person making the admission, is hardly newsworthy any more. “You’re gay? Take a number and wait on line.” is rapidly becoming the response.
Other sexual “perversions” have followed this track. Granted, there are some very serious sexual deviations that are decidedly unacceptable, pedophilia to name one. Admitting to a sadomasochistic desire is now no longer a big deal. This begs the question, how can your sexual proclivity be considered abnormal if nearly everybody accepts it? And, if being kinky or different is what you’re up to, are you willing to establish boundaries or limits to that kink? What if your thrill is in the flirtation with depravity itself? If the act is no longer held to be depraved, by you or anyone else, will it continue to thrill?
Sex as the procreative act is just one of several purposes. To have procreative sex gain more significance and value over sex as recreation and pleasure is rapidly becoming a perversion in its own right. Having more than two or three chldren will definitely raise a few eyebrows. “They have six children?! Don’t they know about birth control? Don’t they know the planet can’t support so many children?” You know the remarks. I dare say many of us believe them.
I’m not saying run out and become straight, give up kink, or have sex only when you want a baby. I am saying that broadening our thinking has, in a perverse way, narrowed our thinking.