Interesting:
- First — you aren’t using any real women or human beings, irregardless of how “real†the image looks.
- If AI art, or erotic AI imagery or whatever does evoke erotic desire or feelings in a man … and assuming he ain’t gonna blow his load… what’s the point?
1. We want “revealing�
But not *too* revealing? At what point is a revealing “met gala†dress more interesting than a full female nude?
2. Why is nudity, full bodily nudity (mostly for women) seen as bad, evil, sinful, immodest, “improperâ€, etc?
3. At what point does it become “too much�
I asked ChatGPT — “Etymology and history of erotic, eroticismâ€
It responds:
The etymology and history of the words “erotic” and “eroticism” are deeply rooted in ancient cultures and philosophies, particularly those of Ancient Greece, a topic you’re interested in.
- Etymology of “Erotic”:
- The word “erotic” derives from the Ancient Greek word “Eros,” the name of the Greek god of love and sexual desire. Eros was a powerful figure in Greek mythology and art, often depicted as a young, winged boy with a bow and arrows, symbolizing the power of love and desire to strike unexpectedly and deeply.
- Over time, “Eros” evolved in Greek language to “erotikos,” referring to pertaining to love, especially sexual love.
- Etymology of “Eroticism”:
- “Eroticism” comes from the French word “érotisme,” which in turn traces its roots to the Greek word “Eros.”
- The term encompasses a broader spectrum, not just focusing on the physical aspects of sexual desire but also the philosophical and emotional dimensions.
- Historical Context:
- In ancient Greek culture, Eros was not just about physical attraction. It also encompassed a deeper, philosophical understanding of love that included beauty, creativity, and even the divine.
- Plato, a significant figure in philosophy, often discussed Eros in his works. In his Symposium, Eros is portrayed as a path to divine beauty, a concept that transcends mere physical attraction.
- This philosophical aspect of Eros influenced how sexuality and love were viewed in the broader cultural and social contexts of ancient Greece.
- Modern Interpretation:
- Today, “erotic” often refers to sexual desirability and aspects that arouse sexual feelings.
- “Eroticism,” on the other hand, is a broader term that includes the cultural and artistic representations of sexuality. It encompasses not just physical desire but also the aesthetic and emotional dimensions of sexual experience.
In summary, “erotic” and “eroticism” have their roots in the Greek concept of Eros, evolving from a mythological figure to encompass a wide range of meanings related to love, beauty, and sexual desire, deeply embedded in both cultural and philosophical contexts. This transformation reflects a journey from the specific (the god Eros) to the abstract (the concept of eroticism), mirroring the complexity and multifaceted nature of human sexuality and desire.
Why is it seen as taboo?
The perception of eroticism as taboo is a complex issue, influenced by various cultural, religious, and social factors. Here’s an exploration of why eroticism might be seen as taboo, considering your interests in unorthodox thinking and philosophy:
- Cultural and Social Norms:
- Societies often have strict norms regarding what is considered appropriate in terms of sexual behavior and expression. These norms are shaped by historical, cultural, and social contexts. When expressions of eroticism challenge these norms, they can be labeled as taboo.
- In many cultures, there is a distinction between private and public behavior. Eroticism, being associated with private, intimate acts, when displayed publicly, can disrupt societal norms and expectations.
- Religious Influence:
- Major religions often have specific teachings about sexuality, which can include promoting chastity, modesty, or procreation within certain bounds (like marriage). Erotic expressions that fall outside these teachings can be viewed as immoral or sinful.
- The historical influence of religion on law and societal values has significantly shaped attitudes towards eroticism, often pushing it into the realm of the taboo.
- Historical Context:
- Throughout history, different civilizations have had varying attitudes towards eroticism. For instance, in Ancient Greece, certain forms of erotic expression were more accepted and even celebrated, as seen in their art and mythology.
- However, with the rise of certain philosophical and religious doctrines in various parts of the world, there was a shift towards viewing eroticism as something to be controlled or hidden.
- Psychological Factors:
- The human psyche is complex, and there can be a tension between natural sexual desires and societal expectations. This dissonance can lead to viewing sexual matters, including eroticism, as sensitive or taboo.
- Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, extensively discussed sexuality and its repression in society. He suggested that this repression could lead to various psychological issues, indicating the deep-rooted complexities in how sexuality is perceived.
- Power Dynamics and Control:
- Eroticism can be intertwined with power dynamics. Societies or groups that seek to control or influence behavior might view erotic expression as a threat to their authority or the social order.
- The control over what is deemed acceptable in terms of sexual expression can be a tool for maintaining certain power structures within a society.
- Modern Perspectives and Change:
- In modern times, there has been a push towards more openness and acceptance of diverse forms of sexual expression. This shift is often met with resistance due to the ingrained nature of taboo surrounding eroticism.
- The digital age and globalization have also played a role in challenging traditional views and making various expressions of eroticism more accessible and visible, further stirring debates on what should be considered taboo.
In essence, the taboo nature of eroticism is a reflection of the tension between natural human desires and the constraints imposed by societal, cultural, and religious norms. This tension is a fertile ground for philosophical and unorthodox discussions, exploring the boundaries between what is considered natural, acceptable, and moral in the context of human sexuality.
- Catholic guilt? Sex before marriage as seen as evil?
- American, Quaker, Protestant, puritan, Victorian notions of shame and modesty?