Studies in the Psychology of Sex, Volume 4: Sexual Selection In Man

"Studies in the Psychology of Sex, Volume 4" by Havelock Ellis is a scientific publication focusing on the psychology of sexual selection, written in the late 19th century. This volume delves into how sensory stimuli—specifically through touch, smell, hearing, and vision—affect sexual attraction and choice in humans. Ellis aims to explore the psychological dimensions of sexual selection, underlining how these sensory interactions contribute to the complex phenomena of love and attraction. The opening of the volume presents a preface that establishes Ellis's intent to outline the framework of his study rather than present conclusive results. He discusses how traditional views of sexual selection, particularly those influenced by Darwin, have been clouded by psychological misconceptions and emphasizes the importance of sensory experiences in shaping love. In laying the groundwork for his investigation, Ellis posits that the stimuli from these senses are fundamental to understanding human sexuality and its evolution, thereby setting the stage for a deeper examination of these themes throughout the text that follows.