More Than Just a Pill

Abstract

Originally published in Contemporary Psychology: APA Review of Books,2003, Vol 48(5), 567-569. Reviews the book, Contraception AcrossCultures by Andrew Russell, Elisa J. Sobo, and Mary S. Thompson (Eds.)(see record 2000-12174-000). It is argued that the key message ofthe volume is that the development of modern contraception methodshas considerably greater implications than just improving the meansof reducing population growth. International health policy-makinghas passed--since the 1960s--successively through attempts to reduceinfant mortality, to reduce fertility, to reduce maternal mortality,and more recently, to improve "total reproductive health." The papersin this volume provide some important examples of the contributionthat anthropology can make to the understanding of these complexities.Modern contraceptive technology has had many diverse effects acrossthe world. In richer countries, many would argue that it has enabledincreased sexual freedom for women to express themselves with reducedfear of conception. Equally, many argue that it has led to the downfallof civilization as we know it, with a loss of moral values and increased"promiscuity." In poorer countries, one of the effects of modernizationhas brought to the fore many longstanding, deep-seated politicaland social inequalities. What this collection does is show just howmany aspects come into play with regard to the use of modem contraception.For all of us, the book raises many challenges. As access to moderncontraception has become more widespread, so the long-existing genderdivides in many countries have come more to the foreground. Pursuingthe agenda of increasing choices for women has highlighted just howmany barriers are in place that serve to restrict the possibilities.(PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2009 APA, all rights reserved)