The Penis Paradox: Life Lessons from the Animal Kingdom

In human society, the phallus is considered a symbol of power and authority, and we tend to think that this notion has a strong biological basis. Science journalist Emily Willingham, discussing the mating rituals and penises of animals, shows that nature had quite different plans for this organ, and it was not created for its possessors to be endowed with any advantages. Tracing the evolution of the penis, the author also reflects on what we can do to strip the phallus of its symbolic weight and put an end to the belief that it controls the man who is incapable of controlling himself. Willingham arrives at a simple conclusion: the penis was created for love, not for war, for intimacy, not for oppression. This engaging and informative book boldly addresses the most pressing issues of gender relations while being full of humor and irony.