both sexes dependent on masturbation, as well as in insanity due to disease of the sexual organs of the female, or during the climacteric,[1] olfactory hallucinations are especially frequent, while in cases where a sexual cause is wanting they are very infrequent.
I am inclined to doubt[2] that olfactory impressions in man, under normal conditions, as in animals, play an important rôle in the excitation of the sexual centre. On account of the importance of this consensus for the understanding of pathological cases, it is necessary here to thoroughly consider the relations existing between the olfactory and sexual senses.
The sexual sphere of the cerebral cortex may be excited, in the sense of an excitation of sexual concepts and impulses, by processes in the generative organs. This is possible as a result of all conditions which also excite the erection-centre by means of centripetal influence (stimulus resulting from distension of the seminal vesicles; enlarged Graafian follicle; any sensory stimulus, however produced, about the genitals; hyperæmia and turgescence of the genitals, especially of the erectile tissue of the corpus cavernosum of the penis and clitoris, as a result of luxurious, sedentary life; plethora abdominalis, high external temperature, warm beds, clothing; taking of cantharides, pepper, and other spices).
Libido sexualis may also be induced by stimulation of the gluteal region (castigation, whipping).[3]
This fact is not unimportant for the understanding of certain pathological manifestations. It sometimes happens that in boys the first excitation of the sexual instinct is caused by a spanking, and they are thus incited to masturbation. This should be remembered by those who have the care of children.
On account of the dangers to which this form of punishment of children gives rise, it would be better if parents, teachers, and nurses were to avoid it entirely.
Passive flagellation may excite sensuality, as is shown by the sects of flagellants, so widespread in the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries. They were accustomed to whip themselves, partly as atonement and partly to kill the flesh (in accordance with the principle of chastity- ↑ Also in the insanity of gestation.—Trans.
- ↑ The following case, reported by Binet, seems to be in opposition to this idea. Unfortunately nothing is said concerning the mental characteristics of the person. In any event, it is certainly confirmatory of the relations existing between the olfactory and sexual senses:—
D., a medical student, was seated on a bench in a public park, reading a book (on pathology). Suddenly a violent erection disturbed him. He looked up and noticed that a lady, redolent with perfume, had taken a seat upon the other end of the bench. D. could attribute the erection to nothing but the unconscious olfactory impression made upon him.
- ↑ Meibomius, “De flagiorum usu in re medica,” London, 1765; Boileau, “The History of the Flagellants,” London, 1783.
