Sexual Ethics Flashcards
(10 cards)
Cohabitation
An unmarried couple living together in a sexually active relationship
Premarital sex
Sex before marriage
Extramarital sex
Sex with someone other than your spouse
Homosexuality
Sexual attraction between people of the same sex
Current attitudes around cohabitation
Cohabitation has become more common, particularly among younger generations.
In Western societies, it’s no longer stigmatised as it once was.
Research indicates that cohabiting before marriage is seen as a norm rather than an exception.
Current attitudes around having children outside of marriage
In many Western societies, having children outside of marriage is increasingly viewed as normal.
In the UK, around 47% of all births were to unmarried parents in 2021
Current attitudes around same-sex relationships
Attitudes toward same-sex relationships are increasingly positive.
Particularly in Western countries, where legal recognition (e.g. same-sex marriage has been legalised in many countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and most of Western Europe) and social acceptance have grown.
However, cultural, religious, and regional differences still shape how same-sex relationships are perceived globally.
Why have attitudes around premarital sex changed over time?
Introduction of the contraceptive pill in the 1960s
Traditional Christian teachings on sex before marriage
It is a sin - sex should only happen in the context of marriage.
Premarital sex indicates a lack of moral discipline and poses a threat to the institutions of marriage and family.
Cohabitation is seen as less stable than marriage and shows a lack of commitment.
Bible quote about marriage
In marriage, a man and a woman ‘become one flesh’ (Genesis 2:24)
