Question:
Is there harm in highly sexual music videos and performances?
Answer: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
(1844-1921), the appointed interpreter of the Bahá’í teachings, and the
son of Bahá’u’lláh (1817-1892), the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í
Faith, said at the beginning of the 20th century: “In a time to come,
morals will degenerate to an extreme degree.” The signs of the times
clearly indicate that we have now reached that extreme. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
counselled that the best protection from the degeneration of morals, be
it sexual or other, was prevention— to raise children according to
sound spiritual and moral principles…”that they may find happiness both
in this world and the next. If not, they shall be beset by sorrows and
troubles, for human happiness is founded upon spiritual behaviour.”
Does the depiction of the simulated sex act ultimately contribute to
human happiness? It’s a fair question. Our new wild and wonderful role
models should be able to tell us how the immediate gratification
of their sexual urges is the healthiest bond they can forge
with members of the opposite sex, or how it assists young men and women
to prepare for marriage, a future profession, raising children or
family life.
The open invitation to satisfy raw sexual appetite actually reveals
itself to be a monstrous illusion. Now by monstrous illusion, I mean a
grotesque deception, something that has grown grossly out of proportion
to its healthy boundaries. Our frantic obsession with sexual power
suggests an imbalance that is closer to neurosis. It suggests, not
freedom, but mindless conformity.
One of the gods worshipped by contemporary society is fame.
Stars have become by default the new role models for the mass consumers
of pop culture. Especially deplorable is the setting of a new normal
for the children, youth and young adults of both sexes by the latest
wave of overtly eroticised performers. Unabashed sexual
gratification is now being held up to girls and young women by those
whose only qualification is fame. But fame and moral bankruptcy are no
assets to enrich the lives of the youth and young adults of today and
tomorrow. Selective viewing is recommended. -
Jack
McLean
