Sex Matters by Mona Charen Summary

Sex Matters critiques modern feminism’s disconnect from biological realities and traditional values, arguing that the Sexual Revolution harmed women by eroding family structures and promoting casual sex. Charen emphasizes hormonal and physiological differences between sexes, documents campus rape culture, and advocates for renewed respect for marriage, motherhood, and gendered social roles.

This book suits readers exploring conservative critiques of feminism, parents navigating gender debates with teens, or anyone seeking data-driven arguments about sex differences. It’s particularly relevant for those skeptical of sexual libertinism or interested in reconciling feminist ideals with biological science.

Yes, for its accessible synthesis of social science, historical analysis, and cultural commentary. Charen balances rigor with personal anecdotes, offering a nuanced counterpoint to mainstream feminist narratives without polemics. Critics praise its readability and relevance to ongoing debates about gender roles.

Charen argues second-wave feminists like Betty Friedan falsely equated women’s struggles with racial oppression, ignoring biological realities. She contrasts their “grievance mongering” with earlier feminists like Hannah More, who celebrated gender differences as strengths rather than seeking sameness.

The book cites hormonal cycles, brain structure variations, and women’s innate emotional responses to casual sex. Charen stresses that denying these differences fuels campus sexual assault crises and undermines women’s natural desires for monogamy and family stability.

Charen links campus assaults to hookup culture and feminist teachings that frame sex as a power struggle. She criticizes conservatives for dismissing the issue, arguing that sexual ethics rooted in mutual respect—not just consent—would better protect students.

She champions marriage, delayed gratification, and motherhood as sources of fulfillment. Charen contrasts the transient satisfaction of careerism with the enduring joy of family life, urging women to prioritize domestic roles without apologizing.

The book blames the Revolution for normalizing promiscuity, destabilizing families, and increasing loneliness. Charen correlates rising divorce rates and fatherless homes with diminished societal emphasis on lifelong commitment.

Some reviewers note repetitive middle chapters and a lack of solutions beyond urging a return to tradition. Critics argue Charen underestimates structural barriers facing working mothers and oversimplifies feminist diversity.

Unlike polemics, Charen uses scientific data and historical examples to advocate for “difference feminism.” It’s closer to Caitlin Flanagan’s work than staunch traditionalists, blending empirical analysis with cultural commentary.

• “Equal does not have to mean the same”.
• “Women are hardwired to care” about emotional bonds post-sex.
• “The best sources of meaning are found in homes, not workplaces”.

As debates about gender identity and #MeToo persist, Charen’s case for biologically-informed ethics offers a conservative framework for addressing modern sexual dysfunctions. Its emphasis on family stability resonates amid declining marriage rates.