ABSTRACT
Pedophilia is one of the most difficult topics of reflection in modern sexual ethics debates. The term refers to the disposition to be sexually attracted to pre-pubescent children. This is distinct from acting on the disposition by committing child sexual assault or rape, as evidenced by the existence of self-described “virtuous pedophiles” who abstain from sexual contact with children on moral grounds yet who still experience stigma and shame for their desires. How can societies protect children from sexual exploitation and harm while also helping those with the disposition of pedophilia to live a life of dignity? And how should we conceive of pedophilia? Is it a sexual orientation, one based on age or sexual development rather than sex or gender? Is it a mental disorder? What is at stake in these kinds of questions? This chapter gives an overview of the scientific study of pedophilia alongside psychiatric and therapeutic approaches to it, while exploring different ways that pedophilia can manifest in terms of (desired) relations with children. It also covers the main arguments regarding the moral status of adult-child sex and reviews current philosophical approaches to childhood sexuality.
