Christine Emba's 'Rethinking Sex' Positions Consent as a Floor, Not a Ceiling, for Sexual Ethics

Interintellect, an online platform known for fostering in-depth intellectual discussions, recently highlighted a conversation with Washington Post columnist Christine Emba regarding her acclaimed book, "Rethinking Sex: A Provocation." The tweet from Interintellect, stating, "> The great @ChristineEmba on @interintellect_ talking about her excellent book 'Rethinking Sex': https://t.co/B0IsiQeHMt," underscored the ongoing relevance of Emba's work in contemporary discourse on sexual ethics. The discussion delves into the book's central argument that modern sexual liberation, while promising freedom, has often led to widespread dissatisfaction and confusion.

Emba's core thesis posits that consent, while a necessary legal baseline, is an insufficient ethical standard for sexual encounters. She argues that solely focusing on "yes means yes" overlooks deeper questions of mutual well-being and genuine fulfillment. The book advocates for a return to a more robust sexual ethic rooted in "willing the good of the other," a concept drawn from philosophical traditions, including that of Thomas Aquinas. This perspective encourages individuals to consider their partner's holistic good, not just their permission.

"Rethinking Sex" critiques various facets of modern sexual culture, including the impact of dating applications and the pervasive influence of pornography. Emba suggests that dating apps, by commodifying individuals and encouraging a transactional approach, contribute to a sense of detachment and psychological harm. She also examines how widespread exposure to pornography can warp expectations and lead to unfulfilling or even degrading experiences, particularly for young men and women.

As a Washington Post columnist with a background that includes converting to Catholicism, Emba offers a unique, often heterodox, perspective that transcends traditional progressive or conservative lines. Her work resonates with many who feel a disconnect between the promised liberation of the sexual revolution and their lived experiences of loneliness and dissatisfaction. Interintellect, through its salon format, provides a fitting venue for exploring such nuanced and often challenging ideas, inviting open dialogue on complex societal issues.

The book has sparked considerable discussion, with reviews acknowledging its provocative nature and its contribution to a growing conversation about the shortcomings of current sexual norms. By challenging the prevailing "consent-only" paradigm, Emba encourages a broader societal reflection on what truly constitutes healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling sexual relationships in the 21st century.