in sexual abnormality and sensationalism;
but that does not mean that the sex-education movement is moribund.
[Sidenote: Sex-education permanent.]
The wave of sensational revelation has passed; but the intelligent
public is no longer ignorant of the nature and causes of the great
problems of sex, and is well aware that young people need definite
guidance for facing the facts of life. It is unthinkable that
intelligent parents who are now well informed concerning sex will ever
again stand for the old policy of mystery and silence. It is,
therefore, impossible to believe that there is any danger of
sex-education disappearing. Of course, we have not reached a permanent
system of sex-education. There certainly will be vast changes in our
approved subject matter and methods of teaching; but the main idea of
the sex-education movement is gaining support every day.
[Sidenote: Sex-education fundamental.]
There is another reason why sex-education will be permanent. In
addition to the great need of educational help with information and
influence which will mold the individual life with regard to the
problems of sex, it must be evident to all that even the legislative,
sanitary, social administrative, religious, ethical, and other attacks
upon the problems depend upon knowledge and attitude, at least of the
leaders. Look at the problems of sex outlined in the earlier lectures
from whatever angle we will, and it appears that, in the final
analysis, education offers the only key to a possible solution.
Therefore, I assert that sex-education--the larger sex-education--is an
absolutely fundamental factor in every phase of the social-hygiene and
sex-ethical movement.
[Sidenote: Ultimate effect of sex-education.]
In closing the last lecture of this series, let me state my confession
of faith in sex-education: It is certainly only _one of several_
possible lines of attack on the alarming sex problems of our time; but
it offers the most hopeful outlook towards improved sexual morals and
health, both physical and psychical. However, we shall gain nothing of
permanent value by extravagant claims or hopes as to the ultimate
effect of sex-education. We must expect incomplete results. It will not
entirely solve the sex problems for all individuals who receive
instruction; but it will solve all of the problems of many individuals
and help many others. It will not eradicate the social evil and its
characteristic diseases, but it wi
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