Is sex necessary? James Thurber, the American humorist and cartoonist, posed this intriguing question in his essay, “Is Sex Necessary?” published in 1932. In this article, we will delve into Thurber’s perspective on this topic and explore the various aspects of human sexuality, love, and the role of sex in our lives.
Thurber begins his essay by acknowledging the universal nature of sex, stating, “The fact that sex is necessary is as certain as the fact that the sun rises in the east.” However, he quickly proceeds to challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding the importance of sex in human life. Thurber argues that, while sex is indeed necessary for procreation, it is not the only driving force behind human relationships and emotional connections.
Thurber posits that love, friendship, and companionship play a more significant role in human life than the mere act of sex. He humorously illustrates this point by comparing the intensity of sexual desire to the intensity of a headache. “As for the headache, I have never met a person who would exchange a headache for a sexual climax,” he writes. “Yet, we are expected to trade the one for the other.”
In Thurber’s view, the act of sex can sometimes be a distraction from the deeper emotional connections between people. He suggests that society often overemphasizes the importance of sex, leading to a shallow and superficial approach to relationships. “Sex is not the end, but the means to an end,” he asserts. “The end is happiness, and happiness is not a matter of sex.”
Thurber also touches upon the role of sex in reproduction, but he emphasizes that it is not the sole purpose of human existence. “Sex is necessary for the propagation of the species, but it is not the purpose of life,” he writes. “The purpose of life is to be happy, and happiness is not a matter of sex.”
To support his argument, Thurber draws upon various examples from literature, history, and everyday life. He discusses the complexities of human relationships and the importance of emotional and intellectual connections between people. “The essence of love is not in the act of sex, but in the act of caring,” he concludes.
In conclusion, James Thurber’s essay “Is Sex Necessary?” challenges the conventional view of the importance of sex in human life. By emphasizing the role of love, friendship, and companionship, Thurber encourages readers to look beyond the mere act of sex and consider the deeper emotional connections that define human relationships. While sex is indeed necessary for procreation, Thurber argues that it is not the only driving force behind human happiness and fulfillment.
