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Salient. Victoria University Student Newspaper. Volume 36, Number 24. 26th September 1973

Sex, Dynamite and Law

Sex, Dynamite and Law

Dear Sir,

Kay Goodger in Salient Sept. 19 certainly shows the weak basis upon which her group of pro-abortionists set their arguments. She criticises Dr H.P. Dunn for attacking the "sexual revolution" she advocates.

But to appeal for absolute sexual freedom is to misunderstand the nature of human (as against purely animal) sexuality, to destroy the basis for true maturity and social responsibility in this area.

The social dimension of sexuality which comprises social structures and attitudes, has always placed sexuality under the control of some laws. I challenge Kay Goodger to point out one social grouping that has not exerted at least some control over sexuality.

That Kay is now bucking at some thing that has been found to be uni versally necessary is absurd. Claude Levi-Strauss has described sex in society as 'dynamite' — it needs to be handled carefully. Sex is at the same time most private and most public, therefore some controls are required in society.

I can see today the body being used as a toy or machine while psychologists tell us of the link sex has with personality — one effects the other greatly. Moreover isn't it strange that tt is only now when the traditional (Christian, if you like) moral code is nearly completely eroded that we get the cry that ours is a 'sick' society.

In an age which is sick from impersonality Kay Goodger et al, advocate quickie, limited relationships.

In an age which is sick from lack of trust Kay advocates a condition where one can never trust another person to enter into a totally self giving relationship.

Kay sets up a situation which objects to permanence, faithfulness in the most complex and important human relationship. No wonder modern society is sick.

Sex should be enjoyed but where it is divorced from responsibility it is outside a human concept. And at this situation one should feel guilty — or has one's humanity been so debased that shame and guilt have been excluded completely?

Yours,

Jennifer Hyatt.

Drawing of three fists