Thinking Sex in Sociology: Sexualities Research in the Twenty-First Century

Abstract

In this article, we take stock of major developments in sociological approaches to the study of sexual life in the twenty-first century. First, we highlight the breadth of theoretical and methodological approaches within the sociology of sexualities subfield. We explore the growth of research that centers race, ethnicity, age, and geographic location within the study of sexualities. We also showcase the growing body of transnational research that critically examines the shifting forms of state power that constrain and enable the possibilities of sexual autonomy and collective action. Second, we examine the emerging subfield of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender)-inclusive demography, detailing the limitations and possibilities of this methodological approach and recent patterns in findings. Finally, we highlight how feminist and queer critiques have expanded the conceptual frameworks for studying sex beyond the procreative/nonprocreative binary that long pervaded the discipline. We end with ideas for how to safeguard the epistemological and methodological diversity of sexualities research in sociology.