Sodomy
Sodomy
Sodomy (/ˈsɒdəmi/) is a term used in law to describe certain types of sexual acts that are not primarily intended for procreation. The precise sexual acts meant by the term sodomy are rarely spelled out in the law, but are typically understood by courts to include any sexual act that does not lead to procreation.
Etymology
The term is derived from the Ecclesiastical Latin: peccatum Sodomiticum, or "sin of Sodom." The Book of Genesis in the Bible tells the story of the city of Sodom, which God destroyed for its wickedness. Although the exact nature of the city's wickedness is not spelled out, the term sodomy has traditionally been linked to non-procreative sexual acts.
Related Terms
- Buggery: Often used interchangeably with sodomy and is a term of similar origin and meaning.
- Crimes against nature: This is a legal term used to describe certain sexual acts that are not intended for procreation, similar to sodomy.
- Unnatural act: Another legal term often used to describe non-procreative sexual acts, similar to sodomy.
Legal Implications
In many jurisdictions, sodomy laws have been repealed or are not routinely enforced. The United States Supreme Court, for example, struck down sodomy laws in 14 states in the 2003 case Lawrence v. Texas, making consensual homosexual activity legal in all U.S. states and territories. However, sodomy laws remain on the books in some states.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sodomy
- Wikipedia's article - Sodomy
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