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The Task of Social Hygiene   By: (1859-1939)

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The Task of Social Hygiene by Havelock Ellis is a thought-provoking and insightful book that delves deep into the social issues of the early 20th century. Ellis, a renowned social reformer and pioneer in the field of sexology, presents a comprehensive analysis of various aspects of society, highlighting the urgent need for social reform and hygiene.

Throughout the book, Ellis explores a wide range of topics, including sexual education, prostitution, eugenics, and the impact of industrialization on society. His approach is both scientific and compassionate, as he seeks to provide a rational understanding of these complex issues while emphasizing the importance of empathy and social responsibility.

One of the strengths of Ellis's writing is his ability to tackle controversial topics with great sensitivity and objectivity. His thorough research and use of empirical evidence bring credibility to his arguments, dispelling myths and misconceptions prevalent in society at the time. His approach is refreshingly free from judgment, focusing instead on the underlying causes and potential remedies for social problems.

The author's emphasis on sexual education and the need for comprehensive knowledge in this field is particularly noteworthy. Ellis recognizes that a lack of understanding often leads to harmful behavior and perpetuates social stigmas. He advocates for a more enlightened approach to sexuality, urging society to embrace education and open dialogue rather than repression and ignorance.

Furthermore, Ellis's exploration of the impact of industrialization on society provides valuable insight into the consequences of rapid urbanization and the resulting socioeconomic disparities. He astutely points out the social inequalities that arise from unchecked industrial progress and calls for a more equitable distribution of wealth and resources.

While the book is undoubtedly rich in social analysis, it can at times feel dense and overly technical, potentially alienating readers who are less familiar with the subject matter. Additionally, some arguments and conclusions proposed by the author are understandably influenced by the prevailing social attitudes of the time and may not resonate with modern readers.

In conclusion, The Task of Social Hygiene is a comprehensive and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the pressing social issues of the early 20th century. Havelock Ellis's scientific approach and compassionate tone make for a compelling read, urging readers to take responsibility for the well-being of society as a whole. Despite some dated perspectives, this book remains relevant as a historical testament to the importance of social reform and the ongoing battle for social hygiene.

First Page:

THE TASK OF SOCIAL HYGIENE

BY THE SAME AUTHOR

STUDIES IN THE PSYCHOLOGY OF SEX. SIX VOLS.

THE NEW SPIRIT

AFFIRMATIONS

MAN AND WOMAN

THE CRIMINAL

THE WORLD OF DREAMS

THE SOUL OF SPAIN

IMPRESSIONS AND COMMENTS

ESSAYS IN WAR TIME. ETC.

THE TASK OF SOCIAL HYGIENE

by

HAVELOCK ELLIS

Author of "The Soul of Spain"; "The World of Dreams"; etc.

Boston and New York Houghton Mifflin Company 1916

Printed in Great Britain.

PREFACE

The study of social hygiene means the study of those things which concern the welfare of human beings living in societies. There can, therefore, be no study more widely important or more generally interesting. I fear, however, that by many persons social hygiene is vaguely regarded either as a mere extension of sanitary science, or else as an effort to set up an intolerable bureaucracy to oversee every action of our lives, and perhaps even to breed us as cattle are bred.

That is certainly not the point of view from which this book has been written. Plato and Rabelais, Campanella and More, have been among those who announced the principles of social hygiene here set forth. There must be a social order, all these great pioneers recognized, but the health of society, like the health of the body, is marked by expansion as much as by restriction, and, the striving for order is only justified because without order there can be no freedom... Continue reading book >>




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