Sexual Ethics

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In addressing the issues raised by women's movements for equal rights a century ago, Michels anticipated contemporary controversies and conflicts regarding gender equality. He firmly supported the desirability of equality between the sexes, making his work relevant to ongoing feminist debates about equality and difference, as well as the critiques of social science stemming from the rise of "difference" feminism. His analysis of the "woman problem" serves as both a historical account of the gender wars of his time and a significant contribution to classic sociological thought. Michels noted that the vast national and economic conflicts in modern Europe highlighted acute injustices, with sex antagonisms becoming increasingly pronounced. He argued for the seriousness of women's rights, linking discussions of sexuality and sexual morality to the "new sexual ethic" promoted by feminists. While he supported premarital chastity for men as an ideal, he questioned its widespread practice. Uniquely in the sociological tradition, he explored the "struggle for love" between genders through the lens of "erotic coquetry" observed in lower animals. Despite advocating for sexual equality, he acknowledged that men tend to be more sexually aggressive, influenced by social and cultural structures. Michels also promoted family planning, opposing abortion, to enhance marital happiness and economic well-being, particularly for the poor.