What Wild Ecstasy

Book excerpt: From the former editor of Penthouse Forum comes a detailed and deep exploration of the sexual revolution and its issues, including controversy over freedom of expression and the rights of gays and lesbians. In this extensive history of three decades of sexual culture, John Heidenry details the rise of the science of sexology, the burgeoning of pornographic works that fanned controversies over freedom of expression, and the lobbying of homosexuals. With discussion of Bob Guccione, Hugh Hefner, Larry Flynt, and other prominent figures, Heiderny gives readers a peak at the rise and fall of the sexual revolution and its effect on society as a whole.