Interview with Michael Barbezat Oh dear! Those religious medievals were quite obsessed with SEX. In this conversation, David Ayliffe interviews Michael Barbezat, a research fellow in the Institute for Religion and Critical Inquiry at the Australian Catholic University. They discuss the intersection of religion and sexuality, particularly in relation to sex shame and conservative religious beliefs. They explore topics such as biblical interpretation, the views of theologian (Saint) Augustine on sex and pleasure, the repression of pleasure in religious contexts, and the changing views on sexuality throughout history. They also touch on the importance of open communication about sexuality and the need to support LGBTQ+ individuals in oppressive societies. See "Sex - Medieval Men's Flow Chart (sorry)" Takeaways The medieval view of sexuality was primarily focused on procreative sex, with non-procreative sex seen as sinful.The repression of pleasure in religious contexts has had a lasting impact on societal views of sex and sexuality.The interpretation of biblical texts has evolved over time, and different theologians have had varying views on sexual ethics.The intersection of religion and sexuality continues to be a complex and evolving topic, with diverse perspectives and interpretations.Open communication about sexuality is crucial for creating a more inclusive and accepting society.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:16 Michael's Interest in Religion and Sexuality 03:56 The Catholic Tradition and Sexuality 05:28 Michael's Specialty in Medieval Studies 06:24 Religion's Role in Persecuting LGBTQ+ Individuals 07:54 Biblical Literacy and Interpretation 08:52 Multiple Senses of the Bible 10:37 The Revised Standard Version Bible and Translation of Homosexuality 12:06 The Challenge of Changing Religious Beliefs 13:17 The Unchanging Teachings of the Church 14:30 Augustine's Views on Sex and Pleasure 15:10 The Repression of Pleasure 16:04 The Connection Between Pleasure and Love 17:06 Sex as a Symbol of Human Disorder 18:25 Sex Shame and its Impact on Everyone 19:21 The Harmful Effects of Purity Codes 19:49 The Flow Chart of Medieval Sexual Ethics 20:54 The Division Between Procreative and Non-Procreative Sex 22:23 The Medieval View of Homosexual Sex 23:05 The Role of Pleasure in Reproduction 24:04 The Diverse Views on Pleasure in Medieval Theology 25:07 The Repression of Pleasure and its Consequences 26:17 The Challenge of Integrating Medicine and Theology 27:12 The Uncontrolled Potentials of Pleasure 28:09 The Need to Balance Pleasure and Goodness 29:06 The Changing Views on Marriage and Relationships 30:24 The Labor Unit Function of Families 31:18 Homosocial Environments and Institutions 32:54 The Repression of Sexuality and its Psychological Impact 33:58 The Impact of Silence and Repression 36:27 The Importance of Open Communication about Sexuality 38:06 The Urgency of Supporting LGBTQ+ Individuals in Oppressive Societies 39:28 Conclusion and Call to Action Support the show