INTRODUCTION 33 



nature is instinctively trying to impart, and we leave 

 tliem to grope their way in darkness or to seek illumi- 

 nation from some unhallowed source. 



"Wliy do the j^oung so often regard an obscene 

 work or print with such fearful but such irresistible 

 curiosity? Not from mere depravity, as we often as- 

 sume, but because they are thus unconsciously seeking 

 information which they have a right to possess, and 

 which we are conscientiously bound to supply in some 

 form which will enlighten the reason, without inflam- 

 ing the imagination and exciting the passions. Sexual 

 knowledge is not wrong ; its tendency is not necessarily 

 injurious; but our mistaken methods of secrecy have 

 undoubtedly the most unfortunate effect of stimulating 

 the imagination to the highest point. We know the 

 baleful fascination of forbidden fruit, not because it is 

 sweet or pleasant, but simply because it is forbidden. 

 This is a notable trait in human nature; but in our 

 attitude toward sexual questions, we have disregarded 

 it, or rather acted in direct contravention of it. The 

 sexual function is naturally powerful; but we enor- 

 mously increase its attraction for the young by label- 

 ing it as forbidden fruit. 



"It is usually easier to indicate a disease than to 

 apply a suitable remedy, but we shall not conclude with- 

 out venturing a few suggestions. First, let us glance at 

 what is suggested in the very few books which touch 

 upon the question. Many urge that parents should con- 

 vey knowledge upon these questions to their children at 

 the time of life when external signs and new sensations 

 indicate that the sexual instinct is beginning to awake. 

 But many, probably the majority of parents, are not 

 well fitted to undertake such a duty. Our language is 

 badly j^rovided with the necessary terms, and the un- 



