A Treatise on the Diseases Produced By Onanism, Masturbation, Self-Pollution, and Other Excesses

In "A Treatise on the Diseases Produced By Onanism, Masturbation, Self-Pollution, and Other Excesses," L. Deslandes delves into a controversial yet pivotal subject in 19th-century medical and societal discourse. This book is characterized by its didactic tone and meticulous attention to the symptoms and consequences of what was then deemed moral and physical decay attributable to masturbation and other similar acts. Deslandes employs a blend of clinical observations and moralistic judgments, contextualizing these practices within the prevailing medical theories of the time, while reflecting on their perceived threats to the virtuous individual and society at large. The work not only offers insight into the medical understanding of 'self-pollution' but also highlights the intersection of morality, health, and sexual behavior during a period marked by stringent social mores. L. Deslandes, a physician of his time, was undoubtedly influenced by the burgeoning field of sexual health and its ramifications on societal norms. His background in medicine and keen awareness of the cultural anxieties surrounding sexual practices provided him with the impetus to address these issues directly. This treatise serves as a reflection of his commitment to public health, embodying a fusion of medical expertise and moral reasoning characteristic of the late Victorian era, where anxieties around sexuality often overshadowed rational discourse. This book is indispensable for anyone interested in the historical context of sexuality, medical ethics, and the evolution of public health discourse. Deslandes' work, despite its archaic views, offers a rich source for understanding societal attitudes toward sexuality and self-regulation in the past. Readers from various fields'—whether they are historians, sociologists, or medical professionals'—will find invaluable insights into how these early narratives shaped contemporary conversations around sexual health and morality.