Studies in the Psychology of Sex, Volume 5 Erotic Symbolism; The Mechanism of Detumescence; The Psychic State in Pregnancy   By: Havelock Ellis (1859-1939)

Studies in the Psychology of Sex, Volume 5 by Havelock Ellis is a thoroughly researched and in-depth examination of various aspects of human sexuality. The author delves into topics such as erotic symbolism, the mechanisms of detumescence, and the psychic state in pregnancy, providing a comprehensive understanding of these complex subjects.

Ellis's writing is clear and concise, making the intricate concepts he discusses accessible to a wide audience. He presents his ideas with a balance of academic rigor and sensitivity, acknowledging the diversity of human experiences and attitudes towards sexuality.

One of the strengths of this book is Ellis's ability to approach sensitive and taboo topics with a level-headed and unbiased perspective. He presents a wealth of scientific research and case studies to support his arguments, shedding light on the psychological and physiological processes underlying human sexuality.

Overall, Studies in the Psychology of Sex, Volume 5 is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of human sexuality. Ellis's insightful analysis and comprehensive exploration of the topics make this book a must-read for scholars, researchers, and lay readers alike.

First Page:

Under "Erotic Symbolism" I include practically all the aberrations of the sexual instinct, although some of these have seemed of sufficient importance for separate discussion in previous volumes. It is highly probable that many readers will consider that the name scarcely suffices to cover manifestations so numerous and so varied. The term "sexual equivalents" will seem preferable to some. While, however, it may be fully admitted that these perversions are "sexual equivalents" or at all events equivalents of the normal sexual impulse that term is merely a descriptive label which tells us nothing of the phenomena. "Sexual Symbolism" gives us the key to the process, the key that makes all these perversions intelligible. In all of them very clearly in some, as in shoe fetichism; more obscurely in others, as in exhibitionism it has come about by causes congenital, acquired, or both, that some object or class of objects, some act or group of acts, has acquired a dynamic power over the psycho physical mechanism of the sexual process, deflecting it from its normal adjustment to the whole of a beloved person of the opposite sex... Continue reading book >>