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The Technology of Orgasm: "Hysteria," the Vibrator, and Women's Sexual Satisfaction (Johns Hopkins Studies in the History of Technology) |  | Author: Rachel P. Maines
Publisher: The Johns Hopkins University Press
Category: Book
List Price: $45.00
Buy Used: $7.95
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Seller: pinebooks2
Rating:  19 reviews
Sales Rank: 466424
Media: Hardcover
Pages: 208
Number Of Items: 1
Shipping Weight (lbs): 0.9
Dimensions (in): 8.6 x 5.6 x 0.9
ISBN: 0801859417
Dewey Decimal Number: 306.708209
EAN: 9780801859410
ASIN: 0801859417
Publication Date: December 18, 1998
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Amazon.com Review
For centuries, women diagnosed with "hysteria"--a "disease paradigm," in Rachel P. Maines's felicitous phrase, thought to result from a lack of sexual intercourse or gratification--were treated by massaging their genitals in order to induce "paroxysm." Male physicians, however, considered the practice drudgery, and sought various ways of avoiding the task, often foisting it off on midwives or, starting in the late 19th century, employing mechanical devices. Eventually, these devices became available for purchase and home use; one such "portable vibrator" is advertised in the 1918 Sears, Roebuck catalog as an "aid that every woman appreciates." The Technology of Orgasm is an impeccably researched history that combines a discussion of hysteria in the Western medical tradition with a detailed examination (including several illustrations) of the devices used to "treat" the "condition." (Maines is somewhat dismissive of the contemporary, phallus-shaped models, which she describes as "underpowered battery-operated toys," insisting that "it is the AC-powered vibrator with at least one working surface at a right angle to the handle that is best designed for application to the clitoral area.") Don't expect any cheap thrills, though; the titillation Maines offers is strictly intellectual. --Ron Hogan
Product Description
From the time of Hippocrates until the 1920s, massaging female patients to orgasm was a staple of medical practice among Western physicians in the treatment of "hysteria," an ailment once considered both common and chronic in women. Doctors loathed this time-consuming procedure and for centuries relied on midwives. Later, they substituted the efficiency of mechanical devices, including the electric vibrator, invented in the 1880s. In The Technology of Orgasm, Rachel Maines offers readers a stimulating, surprising, and often humorous account of hysteria and its treatment throughout the ages, focusing on the development, use, and fall into disrepute of the vibrator as a legitimate medical device.
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| Customer Reviews:
Showing reviews 1-5 of 19
 The history of the vibrator! March 11, 2010
Julie (California)
What an interesting book! It is written in kind of an academic tone and thus it may not be to everyone's liking but I liked it. This was the first book to my knowledge to uncover the interesting history of the vibrator and how midwives and doctors used to use electric virbators to treat so-called hysteria among women.
I also like Sex for One by Betty Dodson which is about the social side of masturbation and women's sexuality. And of course Babeland's Sex Toys 101 which teaches about all the different sex toys (in full color) and Because It Feels Good which teaches how to use them (but doesn't have them in full color).
Great book. I highly recommend The Technology of Orgasm. I think there is even a movie version of this out now but cannot think of the name of it.
 THE SORDID ORIGINS OF GYNECOLOGY February 7, 2010
Robert E. Spaulding (Orange County California)
This brilliant work pulls the drape off the early days of gynecology. Women suffering from "hysteria" were routinely masturbated to orgasm to relieve all sorts of ailments. This is why the vibrator was invented, as a medical device. I wonder if their husbands knew what went on behind those exam room doors. Is it any wonder sexual misconduct continues to be so prevalent, especially among male gynecologists. These men are after all still men behind the lab coats. The risk of abuse is far greater than is reported. Recent trends show more and more women are insisting on female gynos. Husbands sleep easier knowing this.
A truly amazing book.... August 6, 2009
Sister #2 (Miami, FL)
1 out of 2 found this review helpful
If you've ever wondered why some women are just crazy? Or why some - ok many - men are completely baffled by women. This book is one of the best illustrations of why things are the way they are. From Steam powered vibrators to Freud's lacking ability to bring a female patient to orgasm, historically this book is a page turning amazement. Its no wonder women love their doctors! Required reading!
tough read but worth it September 18, 2008
Kitty (Franklin Park, Illinois United States)
okay so as a lay person this was a bit of a tough read, however it was worth it. It's not just the history of the vibrator but on how we as a culture have evolved our views on sex, female sexuality and masterbation. Eye opening, it made me examine so of the views I hold and ask why, and thats always good in a book.
A must read April 7, 2008
Julie Deery
Unbelievable history of the vibrator. Who knew??? It is fascinating and well written. For men and women both. I believe its been made into a documentary and is playing currently at Philadelphia Film Festival. Have fun with this one.
Showing reviews 1-5 of 19
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