Onanism display'd

A curious blend of moral philosophy, early anatomy and candid observation, this eighteenth‑century treatise tackles the controversial topic of self‑pleasure with both scholarly rigor and a hint of scandalous intrigue. The author begins by dissecting the theological arguments that label the practice a sin, then moves to a surprisingly methodical description of the body’s anatomy, drawing on the latest scientific discoveries of the time.

Interwoven with the scholarly discourse are vivid case studies of two young gentlemen and a lady whose private habits have drawn the author’s sharp moral commentary. While the tone remains earnest—advocating chastity as a remedy—the work also offers a window into the period’s attitudes toward sexuality, medicine, and social reputation, making it a fascinating snapshot of early modern thought. Listeners will appreciate the blend of learned argument, personal anecdotes, and the author’s unmistakable voice, all presented in a style that feels both historic and oddly conversational.