Embodying âThe Little Deathâ of Orgasm: An Interdisciplinary Research on Sexual Trance

Phil Shining

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Chapter 10 Embodying âThe Little Deathâ of Orgasm: An Interdisciplinary Research on Sexual Trance

In: Exploring Sexuality and Spirituality

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Phil Shining

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Type:: Chapter

Pages:: 318â386

DOI:: https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004437869_012

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Abstract

This article is an attempt to study the problem of âthe little deathâ in all its depth and complexity. The subject will be approached through an empirical-constructivist model of interdisciplinary research on sexual trance and ecstasy, tracking the nucleus of convergence between scientific, philosophic, artistic, and religious sources, plus testimonies of empirical experimentation. Continuities and discontinuities are traced between Eastern and Western heterogeneous forms of knowledge, like the practices of ancient spiritual traditions, avant-garde poetry, post-structuralist philosophy, and neurophysiological models of explanation. It is proposed that the expression la petite mort functions as a highly accurate description of the neurophysiological core of the sexual trance embodiments, of trance in general, and of all mystical experiences in general. Orgasm and the embodiment of sexual trance are contrasted with three key problems: selflessness, death, and absolute ultimate reality. The article concludes by outlining a new, immanent model of empirically grounded mystical experience.

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Exploring Sexuality and Spirituality

An Introduction to an Interdisciplinary Field

Series:Â At the Interface / Probing the Boundaries, Volume: 132

Cover Exploring Sexuality and Spirituality

E-Book ISBN:: 9789004437869

Publisher:: Brill

Print Publication Date:: 07 Oct 2020

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- Philosophy
  - Aesthetics & Cultural Theory
  - Philosophy of Religion
- Social Sciences
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Chapter 10 Embodying âThe Little Deathâ of Orgasm: An Interdisciplinary Research on Sexual Trance

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Exploring Sexuality and Spirituality

An Introduction to an Interdisciplinary Field

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Chapter 10 Embodying âThe Little Deathâ of Orgasm: An Interdisciplinary Research on Sexual Trance