Sex Dolls: An Overview

Introduction

A sex doll, also known as a joy toy, love doll, or blowup doll, is an anthropomorphic sex toy designed to resemble a human sexual partner. These dolls can feature a complete body or specific body parts like the head, pelvis, or genitalia, crafted from materials such as silicone, TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), or rubber to simulate a lifelike feel.

Historical Context

The origin of sex dolls dates back to the 1850s in France, where they were initially marketed as "rubber women." Early sex dolls were produced during the Brazilian rubber boom, utilizing vulcanized rubber. Despite being heavily criminalized in France, these dolls gained attention and were sold at high prices.

Contrary to popular myths, claims regarding the creation of the first sex dolls in the 16th century by French and Spanish sailors have been debunked. The term "dame de voyage," often associated with these dolls, originated later in the 1890s and referred to sex workers rather than dolls.

Artistic Contributions and Technological Advancements

In the early 20th century, artists like Oskar Kokoschka and Hans Bellmer contributed to the evolution of sex dolls as art pieces. The infamous Borghild Project, suggesting Nazi Germany produced sex dolls for soldiers during World War II, is now considered a hoax. The commercial sex doll industry traces its roots to Germany, notably with the Bild Lilli doll in the 1950s, inspiring the creation of the iconic Barbie doll.

By the 1970s, materials like vinyl, latex, and silicone became prevalent in sex doll manufacturing, providing a more realistic texture. The lifting of import prohibitions in 1987, following a legal case in Britain involving confiscated sex dolls, marked a significant moment for the industry.

Controversies and Ethical Concerns

Some controversies surround the production of lifelike child sex dolls, with individuals like Shin Takagi arguing that such products offer a legal outlet for individuals with pedophilic tendencies. However, researchers like Peter J. Fagan dispute this claim, suggesting potential risks associated with these products. In recent years, authorities in Australia have confiscated imported shipments of juvenile sex dolls classified as child exploitation material.