When sex has no appeal

Most people have a shallow understanding of the nature of Eros. Yes, they do know the biology and mechanics of sex, but not the psychology of erotic life. It is true that advertisers often use sex to sell their products. But does sex always sell?

I have been on Facebook for over four years. There have been days when I get “friend requests” from gorgeous young women dressed in a provocative way. This often happened several times a day. But I immediately declined these requests. Why? Isn’t a goddess-like woman a powerful magnet to men? From society’s point of view, having a young and beautiful girlfriend is a status symbol, and trophy wives are objects of great desire. But context is important. Sex is never just about sex. Sex can be either appealing or revolting, depending on one’s interpretation of the situation. In my case, many of such friend requests from young women are essentially requests for “sugar daddies.” It is similar to being solicited for sex by prostitutes when one is walking down the street. It is purely a business matter. There is no other social or romantic meaning. Certainly, it does not boost my male ego when I am being solicited for my money. What makes for sex appeal? Yes, there is a biological and aesthetic dimension of Eros. What many people overlook is the fact that sex appeal is also closely tied to self-esteem, ego, and the need for admiration and social validation. The truth…