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The Documentary: Why are we having less sex?

Why are we having less sex?

22/03/2022 GMT

BBC World Service - The Documentary, Why are we having less sex?

Author Jerry Barnett investigates the recent decline in sex in the western world

Author Jerry Barnett investigates why in the western world there has been a recent decline in sex.

Across the world, there has been a recent, steep decline in sexual activity - and amongst the young, the change is particularly stark. With the help of experts, activists and the winners and losers in the mating game, author Jerry Barnett explores why this is happening, and asks where it might lead.

Does easy access to pornography or gaming encourage some men to opt out of the mating game? Are women becoming more selective now that they are under less pressure in some parts of the world to settle down quickly? Does a culture of easy hook-ups and sex work prevent people looking for more meaningful relationships? Jerry talks to people trying to find love, and asks why increasing numbers are giving up. In particular, how some young men identify as involuntarily celibate. Jerry explores why they feel they have been excluded from the chance of sexual relationships.

Ultimately, where might we go next? To a libertine utopia of free and easy sex for all, a society bitterly divided between the sexual haves and have-nots, or a step towards re-embracing traditional values of monogamy and marriage.

Presenter: Jerry Barnett
Producers: Jerry Barnett/Ashley Byrne

(Photo: A couple in bed looking at mobile phones. Credit: Getty Images)

A Made in Manchester production for the BBC World Service

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