Purity cultures and the ideology of ‘bodies as property’ as form of sexual violence

Ott T (2025)


Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2025

Journal

Pages Range: 1-20

DOI: 10.1080/13558358.2025.2525613

Abstract

This paper investigates the underlying structural logics of purity cultures from a theological-ethical perspective, highlighting how the regulation of bodies within the framework of purity cultures can be understood as a form of sexual violence. Often associated with conservative religious ideologies, purity cultures impose strict norms and expectations on individual's sexual behavior and expression. Although they claim to promote moral virtue and purity, this paper argues that they can have detrimental consequences for individuals, particularly those who deviate from the prescribed norms. By examining the dynamics of purity cultures and their impact on diverse communities, this paper seeks to shed light on the multifaceted nature of sexual violence and the often overseen way it is enacted by establishing a belief system of ‘bodies as property’.

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How to cite

APA:

Ott, T. (2025). Purity cultures and the ideology of ‘bodies as property’ as form of sexual violence. Theology & Sexuality, 1-20. https://doi.org/10.1080/13558358.2025.2525613

MLA:

Ott, Tabea. "Purity cultures and the ideology of ‘bodies as property’ as form of sexual violence." Theology & Sexuality (2025): 1-20.

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