ABSTRACT
We often think about our sexuality as very private and personal. However true this might be,
sexuality is also social in a number of ways. One of the clearest examples of the social aspect
of sexuality is the recent ‘‘culture war’’ in the United States, which is largely a struggle
over what the social rules governing sexuality should be. Should comprehensive sex edu-
cation be provided to students through public education? Should same-sex couples be
allowed to marry under the law? Should pregnant women have the right to decide whe-
ther they get an abortion? What about girls who are under 18 years old? These issues
about sexuality certainly have a profound impact on people’s personal lives. The policy
battles over these issues, however, are taking place in the public sphere, fought by activists
and politicians.