Disciplining Sexuality Persuasive Essay by Jojoy

Through the examination of Michel Focault's works, "Discipline and Punish" this author first examines the efficacy of varying modes of disciplinary action, from brutal torture as a means of punishment, to constant surveillance, used as a more dissuasive device. The author discusses how different institutions over the years have acquired and maintained power. Finally the author explores Focault's "The History of Sexuality" and discusses the nature of human sexuality, ultimately propounding the argument that human sexuality has evolved into a tool that power-wielding institutions use to dictate how we live. Evidence of sexuality as a disciplinary instrument includes church confessionals, lecturing children on the dangers of masturbation, the implementation of one-child policies in overpopulated countries, and "family planning."