In "Offences Against One's Self: Paederasty" by Jeremy Bentham, the renowned philosopher presents a comprehensive analysis of the historical, legal, and moral aspects of homosexuality. Bentham challenges prevailing attitudes towards same-sex relationships, arguing that consensual acts between adults should not be criminalized.
Drawing on classical literature, legal documents, and contemporary medical studies, Bentham examines the root causes of societal prejudice against homosexuality. He highlights the hypocrisy of laws that criminalize consensual sexual acts between individuals of the same gender, while turning a blind eye to other forms of sexual misconduct.
Bentham's treatise is a thought-provoking exploration of human sexuality and the role of the state in regulating intimate relationships. His arguments for the decriminalization of homosexuality are as relevant today as they were in the early 19th century.
Overall, "Offences Against One's Self: Paederasty" is a groundbreaking work that challenges conventional wisdom and calls for a more compassionate and rational approach to issues of sexuality and personal freedom. Bentham's insights continue to resonate with readers interested in social justice, human rights, and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
Book Description:
Jeremy Bentham (1748-1832) was an English jurist, philosopher, and legal and social reformer. He was a political radical and a leading theorist in Anglo-American philosophy of law. He is best known as an early advocate of utilitarianism and animal rights who influenced the development of liberalism.
The essay Offences Against One’s Self (c. 1785), argued for the liberalisation of laws prohibiting homosexuality. The essay remained unpublished during Bentham’s lifetime for fear of offending public morality. It was finally published for the first time in 1931. (Wikipedia)
This recording was catalogued on 28th July 2007, the 40th anniversary of the coming into force in the UK of the Sexual Offences Act 1967, which decriminalised male homosexuality for the first time (though with restrictions).
