Original Sin: Sex

Original Sin: Sex is a thought-provoking series from National Geographic that premiered in 2016, which considers the varying attitudes and practices around sex, sexuality, and gender on a global scale. Striking a balance between the academic and the experiential, the series provides a multi-layered examination of the diverse influences that shape our sexual behaviors, ranging from biological, societal, to cultural factors.

This educational docuseries tackles the complex topic from a neutral viewpoint, while still managing to make its subject matter approachable and at times, entertaining. Separated into episodes that each focus on a unique sub-topic within the overarching theme, Original Sin: Sex does not shy away from controversial discussions or professions that typically remain hidden behind closed doors. What sets this series apart is its ability to analyze and convey sensitive themes objectively, capturing the transformative power of knowledge in understanding the world in which we live.

The series opens with an exploration of the biological foundations of our sexual drives. It invites viewers to delve into a world governed by our primal forces and survival instincts, underlining the connection between sex and reproduction from an evolutionary perspective. This segment serves as a strong foundation, launching viewers headfirst into the intricacies of human sexuality.

Subsequent episodes introduce viewers to an array of cultures and communities worldwide - exhibiting how geography, religion, tradition, and law shape the sexual narratives and practices within unique societies. By engaging with real-life stories and firsthand accounts, the series takes viewers on an illuminating journey of education and introspection, inspiring critical discussions around the subject of sex.

Original Sin: Sex further dives into the pivotal role of education in forming our understanding of, and attitudes towards, sex. It fairly investigates the controversies around sex education systems worldwide – examining both the conservative approaches endorsing abstinence and the progressive ones promoting safe sexual interactions.

Importantly, the series also carefully examines and illuminates the social constructions of gender and the fluidity of sexual orientation. It humanely brings forth the struggles, the resiliency, and the celebrations of the LGBTQ+ community. The viewer is guided through personal stories and expert analysis; offering a platform for the lesser-heard voices, those challenging conventional wisdom, and advocating for acceptance and understanding.

Another compelling element of the series discusses the prevailing taboos and stigmas surrounding sex. From the commercial sex industry to the often hidden world of fetishes and kinks, the show displays an unbiased perspective, resisting judgment while promoting conversation. With this approach, it encourages viewers to question the roots of their understanding and beliefs about sex openly and honestly.

A broad spectrum of scientific experts, sociologists, psychologists, sexologists and other professionals contribute their expert insights throughout the series. These expert insights, combined with National Geographic's exceptional storytelling capabilities and top-notch production values, result in an engaging and high-quality series that fosters an environment of enlightenment and openness.

The show truly lives up to its name 'Original Sin: Sex', confronting the ancestral idea of sex as a sin and bringing numerous aspects of this wide-reaching topic out of the darkness into the open. Its lens sweeps across global perspectives, introducing viewers to customs, beliefs, and practices that drastically differ from their own. This cross-cultural perspective enriches viewers' understanding of the diversity of human sexuality and encourages empathy and respect for differing viewpoints.

In its essence, Original Sin: Sex is a comprehensive voyage into the fabric that weaves together society, biology, culture, and human emotions. It is not merely a series about sex, but a thoughtful and depthful exploration of humanity in all its myriad forms. This is a must-watch for anyone with a craving for knowledge and a desire to understand one of the most primal aspects of being human. It advocates for acceptance, unity and, above all, for understanding and embracing the astonishing diversity of human sex and sexuality across this vibrant, varied world in which we live.