The Politics of Sex and Gender: Paul Reynolds

Paul Reynolds (Edge Hill University)
Sexual Consent: A Necessary Fiction?

Much research that intersections sexual violence, sexual politics and sexual ethics sits on the
cornerstone of sexual consent - the ethical 'golden mean' of sex. Consent is at the centre of
the battleground in the fight against rape culture, the epidemic of rape and sexual violence
against women (not exclusively but in particular) and for better sexual etiquette and
relationships. Yet in this paper, I will focus not on the scope of consent, but on its limits. I will
argue that sexual consent as a legal-analytic concept mis-describes sexual communication
and mis-directs attempts to improve sexual relationships and practices in sometimes
counterproductive ways. Sexual consent is best understood as a necessary fiction -
necessary but not sufficient to effect a change in the way we relate sexually. That does not
mean it has no value - but its value is severely limited unless it is accompanied by a broader
approach to sexual ethics and the ethical transformation of sexual - and social - relationships
and culture.

Paul Reynolds is Reader in Sociology and Social Philosophy at Edge Hill University. His
research focuses on sexual ethics and politics with special reference to sexual consent,
literacy and well-being, radical - particularly Marxist - theory and politics and the role and
responsibilities of intellectuals. He is co-convenor of the International Network for Sexual
Ethics and Politics (INSEP) and co-editor in chief of its Journal, and co-Director of the
international network Cultural Difference and Social Solidarity (CDSS).