Sex at Dawn Book Review in Short: Is It Worth Reading?

“Sex at Dawn,” a provocative and groundbreaking work by Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jetha, challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding human sexuality and relationships.

So, after reading the book in this blog, I will review it and tell you whether you should read it now. So, make sure you read this review before actually reading the book.

The book, first published in 2010, argues that monogamy is not the natural state of human beings and that our prehistoric ancestors engaged in more egalitarian, non-monogamous relationships.

This bold assertion invites readers to reevaluate their understanding of human sexuality and question the societal norms that have been ingrained in us.

Christopher Ryan holds a Ph.D. in psychology, while Cacilda Jetha is a practicing medical doctor. Their combined expertise in human behavior and physiology lends credibility to their arguments and provides a solid foundation for the book’s exploration of human sexuality.

One of the strengths of “Sex at Dawn” is its thorough research and interdisciplinary approach. Drawing from various fields, such as anthropology, primatology, and psychology, the authors present a well-rounded and compelling case for their argument.

The book is filled with fascinating examples from different cultures and historical periods, demonstrating the wide range of human sexual practices and relationship structures.

However, the book’s weaknesses lie in its occasional overgeneralizations and simplifications. While the authors make a strong case for the existence of non-monogamous relationships in prehistoric times, their assertion that monogamy is entirely unnatural for humans may be too sweeping.

Additionally, the book sometimes downplays the complexities and nuances of human relationships, focusing primarily on the sexual aspect.

Despite these shortcomings, “Sex at Dawn” makes a significant contribution to the field of human sexuality and has the potential to reshape our understanding of relationships.

The book encourages readers to question the assumptions and societal norms that have shaped our views on monogamy and to consider alternative relationship structures.

For me, the book has provided a refreshing perspective on human sexuality and has broadened my understanding of the subject matter.

Conclusion: Is it Worth Reading?

In conclusion, “Sex at Dawn” is a thought-provoking and engaging read that challenges conventional wisdom on human sexuality and relationships. While the book’s argument may not be perfect, it is an important contribution to the field and has the potential to spark meaningful conversations and further research. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in human sexuality, anthropology or those simply seeking a fresh perspective on relationships.

By engaging with the ideas presented in “Sex at Dawn,” readers may reevaluate their beliefs and preconceptions, leading to a more open-minded and inclusive understanding of human sexuality.