Oscar De La Huerte answered
Deciding whether sex is a good thing or a bad thing will really come down to context. Sex in itself is a biological act as natural as eating or sleeping. Having said that, there are health risks and social, religious and legal implications to sex that you should be aware of.
How can sex be bad for you?
The first thing that comes to mind under this topic is the spread of 'Sexually Transmitted Diseases' (or STDs). Having unprotected sex (where potentially infected bodily fluids are exchanged) is the main cause for the spread of STDs.
Currently, it is thought that millions of people around the world are carriers of some form of STD, which means that wearing protection is very important when having sex with someone whose sexual history you are uncertain of.
Sexual crimes and violence are another negative side to human sexuality. Whilst we are all bubbling with natural hormones that effect our sexual impulses, there are people who cannot contain or direct these impulses in a positive way, and who choose instead to commit sexual crimes ranging from harassment to rape.
Let's talk about sex
Sex is often a difficult subject for people to discuss, this is mainly because it is seen as taboo amongst certain groups of people.
Until fairly recently, even countries with 'progressive' attitudes towards sex had very strong reservations about discussing sex or flaunting sexuality.
In a more modern context, many religions forbid sexual encounters before marriage (in some countries this is even enforced by law).
In strongly religious communities, anything that contradicts this stance or entices others to do so is seen as blasphemous.
How can sex be a good thing?
With all the negative information about sex out there, it is sometimes easy to forget why people have sex in the first place! Apart from being the (main) way humans procreate or reproduce, sex can also be an intensely pleasurable experience and a very intimate way to express your love to someone.
Although it is important to be aware of all the dangers of sex, I think it is equally important to consider that positive sexuality is an important part to a healthy and balanced adult lifestyle.
How can sex be bad for you?
The first thing that comes to mind under this topic is the spread of 'Sexually Transmitted Diseases' (or STDs). Having unprotected sex (where potentially infected bodily fluids are exchanged) is the main cause for the spread of STDs.
Currently, it is thought that millions of people around the world are carriers of some form of STD, which means that wearing protection is very important when having sex with someone whose sexual history you are uncertain of.
Sexual crimes and violence are another negative side to human sexuality. Whilst we are all bubbling with natural hormones that effect our sexual impulses, there are people who cannot contain or direct these impulses in a positive way, and who choose instead to commit sexual crimes ranging from harassment to rape.
Let's talk about sex
Sex is often a difficult subject for people to discuss, this is mainly because it is seen as taboo amongst certain groups of people.
Until fairly recently, even countries with 'progressive' attitudes towards sex had very strong reservations about discussing sex or flaunting sexuality.
In a more modern context, many religions forbid sexual encounters before marriage (in some countries this is even enforced by law).
In strongly religious communities, anything that contradicts this stance or entices others to do so is seen as blasphemous.
How can sex be a good thing?
With all the negative information about sex out there, it is sometimes easy to forget why people have sex in the first place! Apart from being the (main) way humans procreate or reproduce, sex can also be an intensely pleasurable experience and a very intimate way to express your love to someone.
Although it is important to be aware of all the dangers of sex, I think it is equally important to consider that positive sexuality is an important part to a healthy and balanced adult lifestyle.
