Sexed Up - How Society Sexualises Us, and How We Can Fight Back Book

RELEASE DATE - 26 MAY 2022

Feminists have long challenged the ways in which men tend to sexualise women. But pioneering activist, biologist, and trans woman Julia Serano argues that sexualization is a far more pervasive problem, as it's something that we all do to other people, often without being aware of it.

Why do we perceive men as sexual predators and women as sexual objects? Why are LGBTQ+ people stereotyped as being sexually indiscriminate and deceptive? Why are people of colour still being hypersexualised? These stereotypes push minorities farther into the margins, and even the privileged are policed from transgressing, lest they also become targets.

Many view sexualization as a mere component of sexism, racism, or queerphobia, but Serano argues that liberation from sexual violence comes through collectively confronting sexualisation itself.

"Julia Serano brings us the incisive, clear-eyed analysis of today's culture wars that we so desperately need. Thoughtful and deeply researched, Sexed Up provides a more compassionate way of dealing with our cultural programming around sexuality."
Annalee Newitz, Lambda Award winning author of Four Lost Cities

"Fascinating, comprehensive, and clearly explained, Sexed Up leads the reader through a radically sensible analysis of what sexualization is and how it happens. (Hint: You're soaking in it!) As we work to create a sex-positive culture, we'll reference this vitally important book again and again."
Carol Queen, PhD, Author of Exhibitionism for the Shy and co-founder of the Center for Sex & Culture

"Julia Serano acutely speaks to many nuances in gender and sexuality that unjustly dictate the safety, value, and autonomy of marginalised genders. Immersive and precise, she traces enduring stigmas to their illogical roots."
Koa Beck, author of White Feminism

"How lucky we are to have Julia Serano -- a writer who brings razor-sharp analysis to the most challenging issues we face today. Sexed Up is another worthy addition to the canon, brimming with the unique patience, care, and clarity Serano brings to untangling our sexual preconceptions."
Jude Ellison S. Doyle, author of Trainwreck

"A brilliant tour de force on an under-theorised topic--sexualization--and the havoc it wreaks on so many lives, especially the most marginalised. I can't wait to discuss this book: it's essential reading."
Kate Manne, author of Down Girl