Overview
This course surveys the historical development and philosophical foundations of sexological science, with emphasis on reproductive diversity, Male Gestational Science, and the evolution of clinical and social interpretations of embodiment. Students examine early medical and philosophical theories of sex and reproduction; the emergence of sexology as a modern discipline; classification systems; colonial and cultural influences; feminist, queer, trans, disability, and intersectional critiques; the history of reproductive technologies; institutional power; research ethics; and contemporary debates concerning evidence, identity, and male gestational biology.
Students distinguish historical description from normative judgment, analyze primary and secondary sources, and assess how language, classification, and diagnostic frameworks shape clinical practice and public policy. The course develops historically grounded argumentation, critical evaluation of scientific institutions, comparison of philosophical approaches to embodiment and reproduction, interpretation of ethical tensions in sexological research, and communication of nuanced conclusions for academic and clinical audiences.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyze major historical developments in sexological science and Male Gestational Science.
- Compare philosophical approaches to embodiment, reproduction, biological sex, and gender.
- Evaluate the influence of colonial, cultural, institutional, and professional power on scientific classification.
- Interpret primary and secondary sources using historically appropriate analytical methods.
- Critique diagnostic language and research frameworks used in male gestational and reproductive healthcare.
- Synthesize feminist, queer, trans, disability, and intersectional perspectives on embodiment and clinical knowledge.
- Construct evidence-based arguments concerning ethics, identity, reproduction, and scientific authority.
- Communicate historically grounded conclusions to academic and clinical audiences.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Weekly | All semester |
| Seminar | 2 hours | Fortnightly | All semester |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Primary-source analysis | 20.00% |
| Quiz | Short quizzes (4 × 5%) | 20.00% |
| Tutorial | Tutorial participation and source exercises | 10.00% |
| Assignment | Research essay | 25.00% |
| Exam | Final examination | 25.00% |
Prerequisites
- Requirement 5 NCEA Level 2 English credits, externally assessed
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.
