Alice Bunker Stockham Knihy

Alice Bunker Stockham (1833-1912) was one of the first female M.D.s in the United States. In her remarkable _Karezza_, she develops her theory of secular sexual mysticism in relation to human creativity. In this seminal book of Stockham, we see a particularly American kind of pragmatic esoteric praxis. An important figure in the history of sexual mysticism, Stockham insisted that the practice of karezza, a special kind of sexual union, was a key to mysticism, magic, and creativity. Like John Humphrey Noyes before her, like William James, and like the later American pioneers of consciousness in the second half of the twentieth century, Stockham was concerned not only with results and effects for the individual, but also with the potential transformation of the whole of human society.Introduced by Arthur Versluis, author of several dozen books, many on mysticism or esoteric religious or literary traditions.

The book is a facsimile reprint of a significant antiquarian work, preserving its original content while acknowledging potential imperfections like marks and flawed pages due to its age. Its publication reflects a commitment to cultural preservation and accessibility, ensuring that important literary works remain available in high-quality modern editions that honor their historical significance.

Alice Bunker Stockham worked as a gynecologist and activist for women's rights and family planning; in Karezza she discusses the fundamentals of a successful marriage, whereby both partners are sexually and emotionally fulfilled. For Stockham, a healthy marriage was one in which the woman enjoyed freedom to pursue her hobbies and activities; where sexual relations serve to strengthen and preserve the marital union; where a household is harmonious to the point of maximizing the offspring's chances of a successful life. Arriving at this ideal situation, whereby several ethical tenets are attained by the couple, is not easy - the author, using her career and experiences as a grounding, offers suggestions and practical advice in support of her treatise. At the time Stockham published this text in 1903, there was little formal marriage guidance or counselling available. The notion that a married couple should consult a professional, that the union be steered back to prosperity and joy, was simply inconceivable. It is thus that Karezza, as a series of ideas and principles, was pioneering for its time. Stockham's arguments, soundly and eloquently stated, make the case for a successful marriage, and the social, psychological and spiritual benefits which result.

Alice Bunker Stockham 1833-1912 was an obstetrician and gynecologist from Chicago, an enthusiastic fighter for a marital and sexual reform. In 1886, her self-publishing company released „Tokology, A Book for Every Woman“. This health guide became a bestseller. In 1896, she published Karezza. Ethics of Marriage, an outstanding plea for sexual reform and birth control. Her magnum opus "The Lover's World, A Wheel of Life", published in 1903, is based on her former works comprehending all of her theoretical and practical knowledge as a medical doctor, social reformer, and spiritual thinker. Stockham's opus combines medical, ethical, anthropological, social, philosophical, cross-cultural, mystical, and religious perspectives. It is a key work for understanding the social, political, and intellectual situation in the United States and partially also in Europe about 1900. Her ideas are still very challenging nowadays regarding the crucial relation between sexuality and love, a controversial topic of all time.

Karezza Ethics of Marriage delves into the practice of Karezza, which prioritizes emotional and spiritual connections in sexual intimacy over mere physical pleasure. Alice B. Stockham presents techniques to enhance arousal and consciousness during intercourse, emphasizing the significance of consent, communication, and fidelity. Drawing from her medical background and personal experiences, she offers insights and testimonials from couples who found Karezza transformative. This book serves as a thoughtful exploration of alternative approaches to sexuality and relationships, framed within a Quaker-Christian perspective.