Endure Chapter 3: Sex, Porn & Polyamory

In 'Sex at Dusk', Lynn Saxon critiques the arguments presented in 'Sex at Dawn' by Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá, offering a more nuanced view of human sexuality and evolution. Saxon argues that 'Sex at Dawn' distorts facts and presents a flawed narrative about prehistoric human sexual behavior. Her book provides a detailed analysis of evolutionary biology, primatology, and anthropology to correct these misconceptions.

This book delves into the evolutionary history of sperm competition, examining how different species have developed strategies to ensure successful fertilization. It provides insights into the complex interactions between gametes and the evolutionary pressures that shape reproductive biology.

In 'Alpha God', Hector A. Garcia uses evolutionary psychology to explain how religious violence and oppression are rooted in human evolutionary history, particularly in the dominance behaviors of male primates. The book examines how these behaviors are reflected in the concept of God in major religions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, highlighting the parallels between primate social hierarchies and religious rituals.

The Enlightened Sex Manual by David Deida offers a comprehensive guide to transforming sexual encounters into profound spiritual and emotional experiences. It provides techniques for achieving various types of orgasms, managing sexual energy, and cultivating deeper intimacy. The book is designed for individuals and couples of all orientations seeking to enhance their sexual and spiritual awareness.

In 'Civilizing Sex: On Chastity and the Common Good', Patrick Riley delves into the Judaeo-Christian tradition, examining how marriage has been used to contain and harness the energies of sexuality. The book provides a fascinating account of sex as a civilizing force in Western society, tracing its origins and evolution.

In 'Endure,' Alex Hutchinson delves into the science and psychology of human endurance, highlighting the complex interplay between the mind and body. The book discusses various physical limits such as pain, muscle, oxygen, heat, thirst, and fuel, and how these are influenced by psychological factors. Hutchinson draws on his experiences as a distance runner and his access to Nike’s secret training project to break the two-hour marathon barrier, providing insights into how individuals can push beyond their perceived limits. The book blends cutting-edge science with gripping storytelling, making it a comprehensive and engaging read on the elastic limits of human performance.

In 'Boundless', Kathleen Winter recounts her 2010 journey across the Northwest Passage, accompanied by marine scientists, historians, archaeologists, and anthropologists. The book delves into the impacts of climate change, the emergence of new hybrid species, and the geopolitical tensions over sovereignty in the region. Winter also reflects on her personal odyssey, including her childhood migration from England to Canada and the complexities of cultural identity and traditional ways of life among the Inuit population.

Ben Greenfield's "Fit Soul" delves into the concept of identifying one's unique purpose in life. The book guides readers through a process of self-discovery, helping them understand their innate talents and passions. It emphasizes the importance of aligning one's actions with their core values and purpose. The book encourages readers to find activities that bring them joy and fulfillment, leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life. Ultimately, "Fit Soul" aims to help individuals live a life that is both physically and spiritually fulfilling.

In this book, Patrick McKeown introduces the Oxygen Advantage, a revolutionary approach to breathing that can significantly improve health and fitness. The book explains the fundamental relationship between oxygen and the body and provides techniques such as the Body Oxygen Level Test (BOLT) to determine and improve oxygen efficiency. McKeown's methods include light breathing exercises and simulating high-altitude training, techniques used by elite athletes and military personnel to enhance endurance, weight loss, and cardiovascular health. The book addresses chronic overbreathing, a common but often overlooked issue that contributes to various health disorders, including anxiety, asthma, insomnia, and heart problems. By following McKeown's program, readers can achieve better sleep, increased energy, improved concentration, reduced breathlessness during exercise, and enhanced overall well-being.

In this book, Joseph Henrich explores how Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic (WEIRD) populations developed their unique psychological profiles. He argues that changes in family structures, marriage, and religion, particularly influenced by the Roman Catholic Church, led to the emergence of WEIRD psychology. This psychology is characterized by individualism, self-obsession, control-orientation, nonconformity, and analytical thinking, which contrast with the more group-focused and shame-driven cultures of non-Western societies. Henrich uses research from anthropology, psychology, economics, and evolutionary biology to explain how these psychological differences contributed to the industrial revolution and the global expansion of Europe.

In 'Sex at Dawn', Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá present a compelling argument that human beings evolved in egalitarian groups where food, child care, and sexual partners were shared. The authors use evidence from anthropology, archaeology, primatology, anatomy, and psychosexuality to debunk the standard narrative of human sexual evolution. They contend that before the advent of agriculture, human societies were characterized by sexual freedom and promiscuity, which strengthened social bonds and ensured the well-being of the group. The book challenges modern concepts of monogamy and sexual exclusivity, offering a fresh perspective on human sexuality and its implications for modern relationships.

In *Finding God Through Sex*, David Deida explores the connection between sexual intimacy and spiritual awakening, presenting sex as a pathway to divine love and deeper consciousness. The book offers practical exercises and insights to help readers cultivate a more profound sexual experience that transcends mere physical pleasure.

This book by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin focuses on the principle of 'Extreme Ownership,' where leaders take full responsibility for their actions and decisions. The authors use their experiences in the U.S. Navy SEALs to illustrate how this mindset can lead to success in any organization. The book covers various principles such as believing in the mission, checking ego, and leading by example. It emphasizes that leaders must own all failures, develop plans to overcome them, and ensure their teams are well-conditioned and aligned with the mission. The authors also stress the importance of humility, discipline, and effective communication in leadership.