Perv

Starred review from July 29, 2013
In a book as informative as it is entertaining, Bering (Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That?) argues for the efficacy of science and logic over irrational morals when addressing “sexual deviancy.” Citing numerous studies and historical sources, Bering makes the claim that, deep down, we are all sexual deviants in one form or another—and that sexual deviancy is, in fact, not deviant at all. From the beginning of human history, people have engaged in antiheteronormative behaviors, from bestiality to pedophilia. Furthermore, Bering shows how most sexual deviancy isn’t a choice, but rather is the result of a genetic predisposition over which the individual has no control. Laws and medical diagnoses controlling sexual activity should investigate whether the activities in question cause “harm” (though harm itself is subjective, and is therefore also a problematic way to assess behavior), rather than whether society is merely grossed out by them. This is clearly a personal topic for Bering, who is gay and, in fact, discusses his experiences of self-loathing and discrimination. Despite the occasional preachy paragraph, Bering’s latest is a delightful, intelligent, and thought-provoking addition to the growing body of our sexual knowledge of self. Agent: Peter Tallack, the Science Factory.

May 1, 2013
Outspokenly attesting that everyone's a pervert in some form or another, research psychologist Bering (Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That?: And Other Reflections On Being Human, 2012) combines science, research and an unblushing curiosity to plumb the depths of sexual deviancy. The author prefaces the narrative with his own story of coming out as gay to his mother at 19--just an average boy "who blended into tree bark and lawn ornaments." Throughout, he appeals for further societal acceptance toward not only the homosexual community, but the socially ostracized "erotic outliers" as well. Addressing everyone, from the prim to the experienced, Bering encourages readers to embrace the willful "unburdening of your erotic conscience" through the examination of a smorgasbord of erotic paraphilias, including common fetishes like toes and tickling and unorthodox fascinations with animals, amputees, insect bites and sandy gravel--the author claims that there are more than 500 varieties of paraphilia. In this meticulously researched and referenced text, Bering offers fascinating case studies involving the power of sexual arousal to neutralize repulsive smells, tastes and predisposed opinions, though chapters on the historical demonization of human arousal, S&M and pedophilia do require an open mind. Refreshingly, the author extends his scope beyond the standard criterion of notorious fetishistic peccadilloes to more taboo sexual preferences that will, to some, skirt the boundaries of good taste (and common law). Anticipating this reaction, he creatively advocates for the understanding, appreciation and acknowledgment of these unique leanings in some of us, though not necessarily for their pardon. A master craftsman at refashioning reproductive biology into provocative composition, Bering nimbly probes "the darkest corners of our sexual nature" with no illicit aftertaste.

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October 15, 2013
Bering ("Why Is the Penis Shaped Like That?") here turns sociological research on its head with this sophisticated, relentless, highly informative analysis of the ever-changing concept of "perversion" throughout human history. Chock-full of facts, statistics, and shocking test results, this is a fascinating look at the development of our "sexual blueprints," as well as a provocative exploration of how, and why, certain fetishes are deemed acceptable while others make us "perverts." Though the title clearly states that this is a work geared toward a mature audience, the content at times is truly graphic; this is definitely a book for those with open minds and strong stomachs who are willing to run the gamut of sexual fetishes, in detail. The abundance of Latin terminology and scientific language could prove a bit daunting to some, but the inclusion of humor and personal anecdotes maintains accessibility to a wider audience. Bering's familiarity with his text shines through his superb pacing and energetic narrative style. VERDICT Recommended for fans of Bering's previous works and those with an interest in sociology, particularly through a gender and sexuality lens.--Ashleigh Williams, "Library Journal"

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2013
Following up his lively essay collection Why Is the Penis Shaped like That? (2012), Bering offers this equally lively exploration of sexual perversion. What you're going to discover along the way, he notes, is that you have a lot more in common with the average pervert than you may be aware. That's because, first, sublimation of desire is all-consuming in our society and, second, because the very notion of perversion is constantly subject to redefinition. For more than a thousand years, the word pervert meant someone who turned away from the right spiritual path (an atheist, basically). It wasn't until the Victorian era that the meaning changed to someone whose sexual preferences deviated from the norm. But here's Bering's central point: we all deviate from the norm because there is no norm. Bering has a very entertaining writing style, but don't let that distract you from the serious stuff he's talking about: this isn't just a list of so-called perversions but, instead, an exploration of the way the human mind and body work and the way we are all just a little bit unusual.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)