Sex Mania In America (Press, 7 January 1957)

In a recent commentary, Professor Pitirim Sorokin, a prominent human behaviour expert at Harvard University, expressed grave concerns about what he calls a "sex mania" affecting American society. In his book, "The American Sex Revolution," he argues that the nation is veering towards sex anarchy, drawing parallels to the moral decline that contributed to the fall of historical societies such as Rome and Greece. He believes that a "rising tide of sex" is infiltrating various aspects of American culture and social life, impacting everything from media to politics. Professor Sorokin identifies several indicators of this societal issue, including the increasing divorce rate and the upsurge in sex-related crimes. He condemns the prominent role that sexual themes play in television, radio, stage productions, films, popular music, literature, and advertising. He suggests that this "sex obsession" is also influencing political life, with the prevalence of "sex bribery and sex blackmail" now rivaling that of monetary corruption. The professor highlights a troubling trend where individuals with questionable sexual reputations are being appointed to significant political positions, including ambassadorships and other high offices. According to Sorokin, there is a substantial number of profligates—both heterosexual and homosexual—among public officials, which he views as a deterioration of moral standards. Sorokin's research suggests that sex addiction is becoming increasingly common, likening it to drug addiction. The rapid rise in the number of illegitimate births in the United States is cited as a stark reflection of escalating sexual promiscuity. He laments that societal morals have shifted to the extent that values such as continency, chastity, and fidelity are now perceived as relics of the past and viewed as oddities. This commentary, published on 7 January 1957, highlights Professor Sorokin's belief that America is at a crossroads, where its cultural fabric is being threatened by what he sees as a dangerous obsession with sex. His observations prompt a call for awareness and potential action to address this societal challenge.

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