The Philosophy of Sex and Love: From Mythology to Equality

Main Article Content

Sippiya Chayanusasanee Jundon
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4233-9232
Sasitorn Onloa
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3374-0738
Chinda Kaensombat
https://orcid.org/0009-0005-6871-4274
Nittaya Phongkanpai
https://orcid.org/0009-0004-5682-5332

Abstract

Background and Aim: The concepts of sex and love have played a pivotal role in human history, particularly in the realms of religion and philosophy. Myths and ancient narratives across cultures have established the foundation for understanding gender roles, relationships, and love, shaping societal attitudes and structures to the present day. This article aims to explore the evolution of ideas about sex and love, from ancient mythology and religious doctrines to contemporary shifts toward equality and the acceptance of gender diversity.


Materials and Methods: This study employs qualitative research, with a focus on documentary analysis of primary sources, including mythological texts, religious scriptures, philosophical writings, and contemporary research. Cross-cultural comparisons and the synthesis of modern theories are also integral to this approach.


Results: This study identifies three key developments: (1) Myths and religious scriptures in various cultures have played a significant role in defining gender roles and relationships. (2) The conceptualization of love and sex has evolved from an emphasis on natural and religious roles to an embrace of diversity and equality. (3) Challenges to patriarchal systems and feminist movements have influenced shifts in societal attitudes and policies. (4) Contemporary societies increasingly demonstrate openness toward gender diversity and support for equality


Conclusion: Examining the philosophical and religious foundations of sex and love enhances our understanding of the origins of social biases and structures. The transition toward equality and the acceptance of gender diversity necessitates a critical reevaluation of traditional ideologies and structural reforms at all levels of society.

Article Details

How to Cite
Chayanusasanee Jundon, S., Onloa, S., Kaensombat, . C. ., & Phongkanpai, N. . (2025). The Philosophy of Sex and Love: From Mythology to Equality. Journal of Education and Learning Reviews, 2(4), 63–70. https://doi.org/10.60027/jelr.2025.1992
Section
Articles

References

ALTV. (2021). ความรัก 5 ประเภทในปรัชญากรีก ที่ซ่อนอยู่ในละครไทยพีบีเอส [Five types of love in Greek philosophy hidden in Thai PBS dramas]. ALTV ช่อง 4. https://www.altv.tv/news/5-greek-love-types

American Psychological Association (APA). (2015). Guidelines for psychological practice with transgender and gender nonconforming people. https://www.apa.org/practice/guidelines/transgender.pdf

Beauvoir, S. de. (1949). The second sex (H. M. Parshley, Trans.). Vintage Books. (Original work published in French)

Beauvoir, S. de. (1949). The second sex. Vintage Books.

Butler, J. (1990). Gender trouble: Feminism and the subversion of identity. Routledge.

Butler, J. (2004). Undoing gender. Routledge.

Butler, J. (2006). Precarious life: The powers of mourning and violence. Verso.

Butler, J. (2009). Frames of war: When is life grievable? Verso.

Chakraborty, S. (2018). Gender and religion in India. Routledge.

Connell, R. (2009). Gender in world perspective (2nd ed.). Polity Press.

Doniger, W. (1975). Hindu myths: A sourcebook. Penguin Books.

Inglehart, R., & Norris, P. (2016). Cultural backlash: Trump, Brexit, and the rise of populism. Cambridge University Press.

Jaini, P. S. (1991). Gender and salvation: Jaina debates on the spiritual liberation of women. University of California Press.

Luehistory.com. (2025). LGBTIQA+ in Greek philosophy. https://www.luehistory.com

Luehistory.com. (2025). LGBTIQA+ ในปรัชญากรีก ว่าด้วยความรักอันสมบูรณ์แบบที่มนุษย์มีมาตั้งแต่... https://www.luehistory.com

Matichon. (2021). “หญิง-ชาย” ไม่ใช่ทุกสิ่ง ย้อนปรัชญา ทวนประวัติศาสตร์โลก เจาะลึกวัฒนธรรม... [“Male-female” is not everything: Revisiting philosophy, world history, and cultural insights]. https://www.matichon.co.th

Narayan, U. (1997). Dislocating cultures: Identities, traditions, and third-world feminism. Routledge.

Plato. (1996). Symposium (R. E. Allen, Trans.). Yale University Press. (Original work composed ca. 385–370 BCE)

Spectrumth. (2022). 7 นิยามความรักจากนักปรัชญา เพื่ออธิบายถึงความปรารถนาที่สุดแสนจะ... [7 definitions of love from philosophers explaining profound desire]. https://www.spectrumth.com

Wikipedia. (2019). ปรัชญาเพศ [Philosophy of sex]. วิกิพีเดีย. https://th.wikipedia.org/wiki/ปรัชญาเพศ