Poll: Are There That Many Asexuals Here?

[DktrAgonizer]

I think you're going to find a higher concentration of people with social defects on internet forums, it only makes sense, people with less significant social lives spend more time on internet forums.

You might think that's silly because forums are social places, but the reality is that you yourself are the only real person on an internet forum, everybody else is just a bunch of words on a blank screen.

That being said, I still don't think asexuality is that widespread in this sort of environment, mainly because I think it ridiculous that so many people could be legitimately afflicted with such a serious defect. I think that there are a large amount of youths on forums such as these, and that their still developing selves are in phases of hormonal imbalance resulting in a weakened sexual appetite misdiagnosed as full blown asexuality.

Please don't call asexuality a defect. It's no more a defect than any other type of sexuality (which is to say, it's not one at all). There's nothing wrong with me or any other ace/grey-ace/demi just because we happen to be a little different. Calling it a defect is, uh, really rude. :/

 

[Biosophilogical]

I, myself, identify as asexual. I've never seen somebody and wished I could have sex with them; the farthest I go is maybe thinking about how it might be to kiss them. Honestly, the act of sex really kind of grosses me out. Whenever I think about it, I just get uncomfortable and a little disturbed. It's not for me, and that's fine.

Bingo. This is me in a nut-shell. However, whenever I say I'm asexual, I like to qualify with a 'for now', because I'm only 18, so I may be a late bloomer, or I may only feel sexy-times-feelings about highly specific I haven't met yet, or I might just have such a low sex-drive I don't notice it, or maybe I simply lacked an obsession with sex during teenage years, so it isn't how I learned to view people (like missing a critical stage in my "How much do I want to penis them?" development).

Alternatively, maybe I just misinterpret how other people view sex. As a teenager recently out of high school, I've seen plenty of people talk about sex for months on end (also Top Gun, drinking, smoking and pot, but bear with me here), and I've never had the desire to do anything even remotely similar to that. So maybe they feel exactly how I do, but they interpret and express it differently, though that would raise the question of how much of our sex drive is actually a natural feeling, and how much is just how we are taught we should feel, though I highly doubt it as I'm sure someone else would have come up with that idea long before this.

So the short version is that I want nothing to do with your genitals/genital-compatible orifices, and I'm not sure if I am a 'true' asexual, or if I'm just going to be late to the party.

 

[AndyFromMonday]

Excuse me, but you may want to reread some of the replies in this (and maybe some other) threads. You have no right to claim somebody you don't even know is lying about something like this.

Yeah, I think I'm more than qualified to call bullshit when I see it. Just like the bisexuality fad before this and the asperger's crap before that I've seen it all and this is no different. Just a bunch of angsty teenagers talking about crap they don't understand.

Besides, that percent you quoted was from an outdated study that could not POSSIBLY have been correct anyway, as that would have required the sexuality of everybody to be found out, which is just not possible.

Just like we need to know exactly how many smokers there are in the world to make an estimate on how many of them are going to die of lung cancer. Oh, and by the way, kissing is sexual by nature. Just saying.

People change, people can be unsure for a long time

Aha, just like how homosexuals suddenly become heterosexuals for no reason at all. It couldn't possibly be that they weren't homosexuals in the first place but fuck, what the hell do I know right?

 

[Malconvoker]

I identify as asexual and have for years. Nothing has ever gotten any response from me. I knew I wasn't interested in men or women since I was about 13 but only learned what the term for that is(asexuality) when I was 18 when I described my views of sex to a friend as being a gross act performed by other people.

I'm 21 now and am a proud virgin. I've never had sex, never want it, have never needed it. I could point to someone and say that "they are attractive" but I would never say "I think they are attractive."

To me, sex is something other people do. I don't care for it and would rather stories about romances and stuff end in a kiss than a bed. I can see how some people may think of sex as the ultimate form of trust but to me it is unnecessary.

 

[Erana]

Told you humans are mindless.

Welcome to the internet, sweetheart. If you want this point to be further proven, I have some youtube links that could help.

"i What these kids don't understand is that the prevalence of asexuality in the population of Earth is one fucking percent. Let me put that in perspective. The chances of a person on Earth being asexual is lower than the chance of you being hit by a fucking lighting bolt.

"Odds of being struck in your lifetime (Est. 80 years) 1/10,000"

Um... Wanna run that math by me one more time?

But yeah, I'm asexual, and with no sexual feelings. And I've been through in my coming to this conclusion, because every little thing could contribute to my anomalous health issues. Part of the matter is that apparently I'm hypersensitive to certain lady hormones which are known to decrease libido, but that's just how I've been all my life, and there's really not much anything to be done to change that. Everyone's normal is different, after all.
And no, I happen to not be interested in a relationship at this point, but right now I don't really crave attention. I wouldn't ever say that asexuals can't have relationships. though.

I know a lot of people do lie about it, and it does annoy me, because as such an unknown orientation, the last thing I want is morons to misrepresent this group and be the ones to make the first impression onto general culture. I'm often as skeptical as the OP on this matter, because so many people do seem to confuse asexuality with chastity, or worse, say "functionally asexual" in all the wrong situations. Or, of course, misappropriate the term as people do aspergers or bipolar or anything like that.

 

[Olas]

I kinda think asexuality is a myth, or at least an extreme exageration. From an evolutionary standpoint our sexual drives are extremely important. A creature without a sexual orientation is essentially useless to the species.

I'll bet most supposed asexuals on this site are really just misanthropes who like to think they're above these tasteless animalistic human urges that dominate the rest of their species. But it's not something you can choose, it's a biological condition.
In the outside world sex = cool, but the escapist community is more civilized so that for some sex = uncouth. So certain escapists try to distance themselves from sex and latch onto asexuality as an excuse.

Really though I'm in favor of anything that makes human life more enjoyable. While I believe romance is pretty stupid, and don't see sexuality as anything magical, I know that it does make life better.

 

[Agayek]

Please don't call asexuality a defect. It's no more a defect than any other type of sexuality (which is to say, it's not one at all). There's nothing wrong with me or any other ace/grey-ace/demi just because we happen to be a little different. Calling it a defect is, uh, really rude. :/

Any type of sexuality that does not directly contribute to the propagation of the species (read: anything not heterosexual), is a defect and an aberration.

It's nothing to be ashamed of or angered by, it's simply biological fact. In no way does that imply those who fall into such a category are "lesser", simply that they are a departure from the norm and suffer from a biological defect.

It's much the same way an albinoism is a defect. No one can control it, and it doesn't make one any less of a person, but it does prevent you from performing the most basic function of all living beings.

 

[AndyFromMonday]

Um... Wanna run that math by me one more time?

That doesn't change anything. The fact of the matter is, inborn asexuality is way to rare to account for the tens of people here claiming they're asexual. Much more likely they suffer from an actual problem ranging anywhere from hyperthyroidism to teenage angst.

 

[axlryder]

I don't think there are all that many asexuals, but I do think that some people have sexual idiosyncrasies (physiologically rooted or otherwise) that are similar to asexuality and simply find it easier to identify themselves as asexual than go through a whole song and dance to explain their particular relationship with sex. I have my own issues with it, and while I'm not asexual at all, I've identified myself as asexual when I felt it to be equivalent to my own condition in a specific context for brevity's sake (though never on these forums).

 

[DktrAgonizer]

Yeah, I think I'm more than qualified to call bullshit when I see it. Just like the bisexuality fad before this and the asperger's crap before that I've seen it all and this is no different. Just a bunch of angsty teenagers talking about crap they don't understand.

Regardless, it really isn't fair for you to say what I know I am is just a fad. I've never had an interest in sex, and it's not just because I haven't "met the right person" or some bullshit. Like I said, I'm sure there are people who are lying for some reason, but it's not fair to assume that everybody is.

Just like we need to know exactly how many smokers there are in the world to make an estimate on how many of them are going to die of lung cancer. Oh, and by the way, kissing is sexual by nature. Just saying.

So? Some asexuals may find romanctic gestures such as kissing and hugging to be fine, whereas the act is sex is disgusting. I'm one such person. Others may despise physical intimacy in all forms. Being fine with kissing does not mean you're suddenly not an asexual.

Aha, just like how homosexuals suddenly become heterosexuals for no reason at all. It couldn't possibly be that they weren't homosexuals in the first place but fuck, what the hell do I know right?

Except that research shows that sexuality can be fluid. I'm not saying people suddenly hop from one to another, but they may change their sexual identity based on experiences they get as they get older. Not everybody stays the same, for various reasons. Hell, I myself used to think the idea of kissing other girls was gross. Now, sometimes I think it'd be nice to do that if I wanted (which I currently won't, as I have a boyfriend, but still.)

Any type of sexuality that does not directly contribute to the propagation of the species (read: anything not heterosexual), is a defect and an aberration.

It's nothing to be ashamed of or angered by, it's simply biological fact. In no way does that imply those who fall into such a category are "lesser", simply that they are a departure from the norm and suffer from a biological defect.

It's much the same way an albinoism is a defect. No one can control it, and it doesn't make one any less of a person, but it does prevent you from performing the most basic function of all living beings.

Okay, going on thinking that I guess, but it doesn't change the fact that calling it a defect or an aberration sounds really, really rude. At least, it is to me.

 

[Random Fella]

Asexuality, imo, is a total farce. Just because you have a low sex drive, doesn't mean you are asexual. It means that you don't have the same level of desire to go out and hump things as the next person.

No, It's an actual way of sexuality. They have almost no sex drive so in a way you're correct, but you're just desribing Asexuality.

As for on this website, perhaps there is more than the average Asexuals around, the same with outward homosexuals and bi-sexuals. But I don't think it's as high as people would think with asexuality, because looking at posts people make it looks around 5-10% which is too high, perhaps some of them may just be saying they are Asexual as an excuse, but I really don't know the truth to the matter, but in my opinion I would pick the first option.

 

[TheMagicLemur]

What? Accidentally getting pregnant and STI's not a factor?

Aside from the henpecking, some people, whether you believe it or not, are bored by sex, stressed by it, and some are even pained by it. I've experimented, and I still do not enjoy sex, it's not an activity I have any interest in aside from its philosophical implications. I have no natural interest in people in that way.

Throughout high school I was confused as to what it meant to want sex, and I still don't understand very well. But I don't dismiss that many people genuinely like and want sex. Perhaps you're in a similar position, but on the opposite side of the spectrum?

A lot of us have a hard time understanding asexuals, and many people simply cannot accept what they don't understand. Add to this the fact that asexuality is abnormal (not being judgemental here; it's simply not the "default" for sexually mature humans or we wouldn't even exist) and you can see why people might be hostile.

I really don't have an issue with people who are asexual, myself. I love sex and I can't understand not being interested in it, but I don't begrudge people not being interested.

I think another reason people tend to be hostile towards asexuals is that a LOT of them seem to put themselves up on a pedestal, largely for the same reasons; they don't understand why anyone would want to have sex, and they feel like it's gross, so people that like it are somehow less evolved or something. So for the record, asexuals: If you insist people are somehow sick, wrong, immature, or whatever for enjoying sex, you are just as much of an unreasonable dick as someone who insists that you 'can't be asexual'.

 

[InsanityRequiem]

Um... Wanna run that math by me one more time?

That doesn't change anything. The fact of the matter is, inborn asexuality is way to rare to account for the tens of people here claiming they're asexual. Much more likely they suffer from an actual problem ranging anywhere from hyperthyroidism to teenage angst.

And what do you say of people past the age of 25 that are asexual? Your posts sound, to me and a few others I'd surmise, just like the religious nut jobs that say Homo/Bisexuality does not exist and is a choice. Maybe you should read TVTropes about Asexuality, since it's actually quite detailed and points out a lot of things in regards to asexuality. Here's the link: http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/Asexuality

We have next to no understanding of the human brain when we get to the nitty-gritty. Sexuality is part of it. My hormones tell me what's attractive and what's not. Just like your hormones tell you what's attractive and what's not. Mine just say that neither men nor women are attractive physically. And if you look at Humanity and how many people are on this planet (Roughly 7 billion I believe), then you do not have any sort of right to say that 100% of humanity is attractive to physical appearance.

 

[Snotnarok]

As an asexual I'd like to point out an error in your post OP, it's not psychological. I don't know or care the numbers of asexuals I just know how I feel isn't appointed to anything mental. I've had blood tests, it's nothing to do with low testosterone or too high estrogen, it's just genuine lack of care for sex, I've had girlfriends, I've had sex, I've had no interest in men I can tell you from the numerous art classes involving naked individuals.

I just don't care for that kind of intimacy or being with someone in a relationship and would rather do a round of gaming or art honestly. And as far as age? That probably has a lot to do with it, when my brother told me even when I was teen he knew something was up with how I acted.

Edit: And for those opening their mouths like they know something calling it an act or some chemistry muck up, why not do some research before you say something incredibly stupid. It's not a choice, it's not low sex drive and if that's what you're getting on a soapbox broadcasting well you really know nothing and shouldn't be talking about such things. So do yourself a favor, research before you say something you know nothing about.

 

[viranimus]

Wasnt buying it before. Nothings really changed. Still not buying it one way or another.

getting pregnant and STD's ?

Isnt that like two of the same things?

 

[AndyFromMonday]

Regardless, it really isn't fair for you to say what I know I am is just a fad.

Just like people KNEW they had asperger's. I mean, if you know you have it then who am I to call bullshit right?

I've never had an interest in sex

Except kissing but kissing isn't sexual at all right?

So? Some asexuals may find romanctic gestures such as kissing and hugging to be fine

Kissing is sexual BY NATURE. You can't say "I hate sex" but then immediately state you enjoy acts that are sexual by fucking nature.

the act is sex is disgusting.

That's not asexuality, that's HSDD or sexual aversion disorder.

Except that research shows that sexuality can be fluid.

Research done by the magic pixies of acid land?

. I'm not saying people suddenly hop from one to another, but they may change their sexual identity based on experiences they get as they get older.

Wrong again. If you're gay, you're gay for the rest of your life. If you suddenly feel the need to shove your dick somewhere other than a guy's ass then you're bisexual.

which I currently won't, as I have a boyfriend, but still.

Wait, you have a boyfriend? You do realize you've just shot yourself in the foot twice already?

 

[TheMagicLemur]

Yeah, I think I'm more than qualified to call bullshit when I see it. Just like the bisexuality fad before this and the asperger's crap before that I've seen it all and this is no different. Just a bunch of angsty teenagers talking about crap they don't understand.

Regardless, it really isn't fair for you to say what I know I am is just a fad. I've never had an interest in sex, and it's not just because I haven't "met the right person" or some bullshit. Like I said, I'm sure there are people who are lying for some reason, but it's not fair to assume that everybody is.

Ok, totally agree there; this guy is talking out of his ass. I wish the "Douchebag blowhard who thinks he knows everything" fad would die out, that's for sure.

Just like we need to know exactly how many smokers there are in the world to make an estimate on how many of them are going to die of lung cancer. Oh, and by the way, kissing is sexual by nature. Just saying.

So? Some asexuals may find romanctic gestures such as kissing and hugging to be fine, whereas the act is sex is disgusting. I'm one such person. Others may despise physical intimacy in all forms. Being fine with kissing does not mean you're suddenly not an asexual.

I just want to say something here: It's totally ok for you to be like that, but it is NOT ok for you to date someone who wants a sexual relationship unless you're both ok with them getting sex elsewhere. Some asexuals do that, and those people are selfish bastards. It's just something that comes up a LOT and I wanted to point that out. If any asexuals out there want a completely monogamous, romantic relationship, then you should date other asexuals.

Aha, just like how homosexuals suddenly become heterosexuals for no reason at all. It couldn't possibly be that they weren't homosexuals in the first place but fuck, what the hell do I know right?

Uh, nothing, pretty much. You are making it abundantly clear that you know nothing.

Any type of sexuality that does not directly contribute to the propagation of the species (read: anything not heterosexual), is a defect and an aberration.

It's nothing to be ashamed of or angered by, it's simply biological fact. In no way does that imply those who fall into such a category are "lesser", simply that they are a departure from the norm and suffer from a biological defect.

It's much the same way an albinoism is a defect. No one can control it, and it doesn't make one any less of a person, but it does prevent you from performing the most basic function of all living beings.

Okay, going on thinking that I guess, but it doesn't change the fact that calling it a defect or an aberration sounds really, really rude. At least, it is to me.

It is abberant in that it is not the default human behavior. It's ok to be that way, so long as you don't make the mistake of thinking that all those people having sex are the ones who are deviating from the norm.

 

[Erana]

Um... Wanna run that math by me one more time?

That doesn't change anything. The fact of the matter is, inborn asexuality is way to rare to account for the tens of people here claiming they're asexual. Much more likely they suffer from an actual problem ranging anywhere from hyperthyroidism to teenage angst.

Now I'm going to pull out my Escapist-fu, and point out that, during the El Shaddai event last year, users cheating with bots were able to amass over 10000 users who had recieved an El Shaddai badge in a matter of days after the event began, thus proving that, statistically, there were at least 100 asexuals active in a period of under a week. Then add in the fact that that the number of participants is only a fraction of total users active in that time, and, as I myself have done, asexuals seeing a thread like this that questions the authenticity of their orientation would log in to defend themselves!
Even at a less active time such as right now, it is perfectly feesiable to have a handful of asexuals here to speak their voice. You, sir, have grossly underestimated the nature of this website!
*proceeds to prance around like an Escapist ninja*

I don't think there are all that many asexuals, but I do think that a lot of people have sexual oddities and simply find it easier to identify themselves as asexual than go through a whole song and dance to explain their particular relationship with sex. I have my own issues with it, and while I'm not asexual at all, I've identified myself as asexual when I felt it to be equivalent to my own condition in a specific context for brevity's sake (though never on these forums).

Please, don't do that in the future, it only confuses the matter, when asexuals haven't had their own say in the general eye yet.

 

[AndyFromMonday]

And what do you say of people past the age of 25 that are asexual? Your posts sound, to me and a few others I'd surmise, just like the religious nut jobs that say Homo/Bisexuality does not exist and is a choice.

That's your go to page, tvtropes? How about scooping up some actual scientific studies on the subject. Oh right, you can't. You know why? Because decreased libido is part of so many disorders that categorizing it as an actual sexual orientation would be insane, especially since we have so little scientific data on the subject.

then you do not have any sort of right to say that 100% of humanity is attractive to physical appearance.

I do have the right to express my opinion though. It's something called free speech, look it up.

 

[axlryder]

Please don't call asexuality a defect. It's no more a defect than any other type of sexuality (which is to say, it's not one at all). There's nothing wrong with me or any other ace/grey-ace/demi just because we happen to be a little different. Calling it a defect is, uh, really rude. :/

Any type of sexuality that does not directly contribute to the propagation of the species (read: anything not heterosexual), is a defect and an aberration.

It's nothing to be ashamed of or angered by, it's simply biological fact. In no way does that imply those who fall into such a category are "lesser", simply that they are a departure from the norm and suffer from a biological defect.

It's much the same way an albinoism is a defect. No one can control it, and it doesn't make one any less of a person, but it does prevent you from performing the most basic function of all living beings.

When talking to others it's important to take the general connotations of a word into account, regardless of its factual meaning or objective accuracy. Heck, even a word which has neutral meaning in one setting could be seen as negative in another. I'd find this to be an example of the latter. I wouldn't have even brought it up, but the fact that you said "suffer from a biological defect" makes it almost seem as though you're being subtly inflammatory. I just don't want to see you unwittingly alienate yourself