Ep 7. Sex and War

In episode 7 of How Sex Changed the World season 1, titled "Sex and War," viewers explore how sex and sexuality have played a role in warfare throughout history.

The episode begins with a look at ancient Greek and Roman warfare. In these times, soldiers often engaged in sexual acts with one another before battle, believing that it would enhance their bravery and strength in combat. The episode also explores how sexual violence has been used as a weapon of war throughout history, with examples ranging from the Viking invasions to the Nanking Massacre during World War II.

Moving forward in time, the episode looks at the role of sexuality in the American Civil War. With men leaving their homes for extended periods of time to fight, women were often left alone and vulnerable to sexual advances from other men. Some women even disguised themselves as men in order to fight in the war or take up other masculine roles that were typically closed off to them.

The episode also covers the role of sexuality in World War I, including the rampant spread of sexually transmitted infections amongst soldiers and the use of condoms as a means of control. The role of sex in espionage during World War II is also explored, with examples of both male and female agents seducing their targets in order to obtain sensitive information.

The episode then moves on to the modern era, with a look at the use of sex as a means of torture and humiliation in modern conflicts, including the infamous Abu Ghraib prison scandal during the Iraq War. The use of sexual violence against women as a tactic of terrorism is also discussed, with examples ranging from Boko Haram in Nigeria to ISIS in the Middle East.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with a nuanced perspective on the relationship between sex and war, with discussion of both positive and negative aspects. While sexual acts between soldiers in ancient times may have provided a sense of camaraderie and bravery, the use of sexual violence in modern conflicts represents a horrifying reality that can have long-lasting effects on individuals and society at large.

Overall, "Sex and War" is a thought-provoking episode that sheds light on a complex and often uncomfortable topic. By exploring the relationship between sex and warfare throughout history, viewers are invited to consider the many ways in which human sexuality has influenced the course of human events.