Hypnotic analysis of the recognition of a sex symbol

Abstract

A very important modern-day attitude towards sex is reflected in the fact that direct representations of the genital organs are rarely if ever found in works of art or architecture. Still it is a well known fact that both art and architecture contain symbolic representations of the genital organs; and this is perhaps especially true in connection with church design and decoration. Among ancient and primitive peoples and at times during the middle ages, frank worship of the generative organs has been widespread. However, the association of sexual activity with sin and guilt in the Judaic-Christian tradition has tended to drive overt sex underground, such that its direct representation with any but a derogatory intent (as in dirty drawings and jokes) is taboo. Thus it is possible for churches to contain thinly disguised sex symbols which are not recognized as such by most viewers. Presumably the churchgoer derives satisfaction from the symbols without having to cope with the problem of sex-related guilt and shame. The present investigation was aimed at determining the extent to which the symbolism of sex is recognized at different levels of mental functioning. That is, an effort was made to determine the extent to which the mind defends itself against recognizing the reality behind the symbol.