|
|
|
||
|
|
The introduction of Condomania as a possible theme space for our group was met by shock, nervous laughter, and a little concern about how people would percieve us. The reason for this surprised reaction was probably because this particular themed space focuses on a pretty controversial issue in society-SEX! For several reasons, sexual discussion in the public has developed into something like a derogatory concept, not meant to be discussed or acknowledged publically. Religious beliefs discouraging sex before marriage, an increase in the spread of sexually transmitted disease, and higher pregnancy reates are a few negative things that have contributed to higher levels of concern regarding sex. Within this societal context, "Condomania" might imply several things for different people. This page explores the semiotics that inform this themed space.
-Murray S. Davis "Condomania" is a conductor of division between traditional moralists and liberals, the repressed and the liberated, or any other relationshiops reflectiong the dichotomy in views regarding sexual norms. American society is, and has historically been, a sexually repressive society. In modern times however, society's construct of sexual norms is being destructed and re-evaluated. Public displays of sexual expressions and the integration of homosexuality into American culture has iniated a social and political battle to determine what constitutes sexual norms and what is socially acceptable. Considering that a large degree of society tries to affirm the sanctity of family life, is hostile to homosexuality and sexual deviance, and is opposed to sex education, Condomania has the potential to arouse moral anxiety and confusion because incorrect perceptions of it's objectives make it appear to be a business that contradicts the ideals of the larger society. The fact that this store emphasizes sex as pleasuarable to an open audience is not good to those traditionalists who disapprove of sex for pleasure and believe that it should be an act limited for marriage.
Because Condomania is a specialty store that sells sex paraphanalia, Condomania might imply, for some, a promotion of sex. Even further, the store might be criticzed for the fact that it does not prohibit minors from accessing thier resources, which might be considered far more detrimental to the well-being of society. As a matter of fact, Condomania might arguably be considered to actively target the youth. The store and the website reflects the youth of it's founder Adam Glickman, who was a 21 year old college student when he started condomania. The opportunity for fun and enjoyment through safe sex is the theme of his business and he accent sthat theme through the use of fun fonts, bright colors, cute characters, and funny/interesting posters and/billboards, and a variety of novelty items. The fact that this store emphasizes sex as pleasuarable to an open audience is not good to those traditionalists who disapprove of sex for pleasure and believe that it should be an act limited for marriage. Secondly, Condomania's location in Greenwich Village, a haven of sexual liberation and homosexualiy, potentially associates the store with those deemed by society as sexually deviant. For that reason, the store might also be discriminated against, as it might denote the immorality and lack of civility that traditionalists consider characteristic of the sorts of people who flock to Greenwich Village. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The fact that this store emphasizes sex as pleasuarable to an open audience is not good to those traditionalists who disapprove of sex for pleasure and believe that it should be an act limited for marriage. Secondly, Condomania's location in Greenwich Village, a haven of sexual liberation and homosexualiy, potentially associates the store with those deemed by society as sexually deviant. For that reason, the store might also be discriminated against, as it might denote the immorality and lack of civility that traditionalists consider characteristic of the sorts of people who flock to Greenwich Village. Despite it's perceptions, Condomania is not a sleezy, pornographic, x-rated sex and/or sex paraphanalia shop. It is an open space that is not attempting to fly in the face of societal morals or ettiquette, but rather to tackle the societal problem of unprotected sex by reaching out to all those who are sexually active. It is trying to break down the repressive nature that is perpetuating many of the problematic social phenomenon that has been occuring in contemporary times and offer solutions. As Glickman said, "People have gotten past asking, 'Isn't brushing my teeth every morning a hassle?' Given the world we live in, wearing a condom is something you just have to do, like brushing your teeth. The stakes are too high." Condomania, through its products and sex education efforts seeks to promote safe sex for everyone. It is not a discouraging environment. Despite the perceptions of the village as a sexually deviant community, it is above all a liberal community. It does not restrict participation, but rather encourages all to adopt an open mind which would allow for an understanding of and acceptance of the sexual revolution that is occuring in American society. Those who are discouraged are because of their unwillingness to reconsider the societal norms that establish their values and beliefs. They consciously choose not to participate, and this phenomenon is true, not only for the macro-structure of the Greenwich Village community, but also for the micro-structure of Condomania.
In sum, Condomania taps into the social anxiety surrounding sex. It introduces sexual awareness as a necessary component of public consciousness. This influence is the inverse of primary social values which suggest that sex and sexual discussion is a private matter that should be respected as and treated as such. However, there are two sides to the story, as Murray Davis presented in the above quote. Condomania reflects the cultural and societal dichotomy. It might be viewed as a revolutionary structure which embodies the spectrum of cultural and societal differences.
|
||
|
Citation by Murry S. Davis taken from: Weeks, Jeffrey. Sexuality. London: Tovistock, 1981. Chapter 1, pg. 1. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
