Pleasure Under Siege: The effects of colonialism, religion, and culture on sexual self-pleasure in Palestine

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the intricate factors shaping Palestinians‘ perceptions of sexual self-pleasure, focusing on the intersectionality of the European colonial history in the region, the ongoing Israeli settler colonialism, and religious and cultural influences. It seeks to particularly focus on the historical knowledge of 'Ilm Al-Bah—a scientific field developed in the 9th century CE during the Arab/Muslim civilization, which is suspected to have diminished visibility in both academic discourse and regional consciousness. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach that combines qualitative interviews and thematic analysis through quantitative surveys, this methodology will enable a thorough exploration of both broad societal patterns and individual narratives to better understand how these intersecting themes influence current perceptions and knowledge of sexuality in Palestine.

This exploration is critical not only for understanding present-day sexual norms and stigmas but also for contributing to the broader decolonial and feminist discourse, potentially paving the way for sexual autonomy and gender equity, not only in Palestine but also in similar Arab/Muslim contexts.