Sapiosexuality...
Though definitions might vary, the term generally describes people for whom sexual attraction is based on intellect, and not necessarily on looks.
Although looks undeniably play a role in sexual attraction, for some of us the idea of coitus with an intellectually inferior person is in fact a turn off. Some might even argue that seeking out an intellectually inferior partner is the calling card of a manipulator, opportunist or sociopath. Preying on the weak, taking the path of least resistance, if you will.
That's not to say that sapiosexuals are immune to immorality. Sapiosexuals actually come in all shapes and sizes, ethnicities, genders and orientations. It virtually is one of the few things that transcends any bias or stigmas that normally divide us.
The idea of sapiosexuality has been quietly gaining traction in recent years. For example, in 2014, “sapiosexual” became one of an expanded list of sexual orientations and identities daters could choose on OkCupid, the online dating app.
More recently, the CineKink NYC film festival featured “Sapiosexual,” a short film about a young woman named 'Cass' whose attraction to her date increases as he discusses the work of E.M. Forster. As her character puts it, “Most women get turned on by rock-hard abs, toned muscles or perfect cheekbones. Not me!”
However, with increased visibility has come a backlash. Some say declaring a sexual preference based on intelligence is pretentious, elitist or insulting to people with learning disabilities.
I prefer to think that all sexual arousal, so long as it is between consenting adult humans, should be celebrated and accepted by our societies.
Alas, a sexual utopia might be beyond our reach currently, but with sapiosexuality growing in numbers by the day, I'm hopeful that sexuality of all types will one day be revered as the greatest connection two human beings can share and one of life's greatest pleasures... not to mention, the reason why any of us are actually here on this earth at all.
Teresa Sheffield, 28, a comedian who identifies as sapiosexual was quoted from an article stating “You just have to have a sense of humor, If you don’t, I’ll be as attracted to you as I am to a border collie.”
This brings up a good point... We know that intelligence is not a one trick pony. Intellectual prowess doesn't always equate to being highly educated. Alternatively, what about someone who's highly knowledgeable in a subject you find boring?
Intelligence types can be broken down into several hierarchies... rhythmic or harmonic, spatial, linguistic, logical, kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal or naturalistic. There's probably more that we don't even understand at all yet, and maybe a few that I neglected to add, but almost everyone is intelligent about something.
So go out there, find someone you connect with intellectually and watch the sparks fly. Your sexual experiences will be far more rewarding.
Enjoy each other and most importantly, play safe!
-Max
If you're interested in more about sapiosexuality, check out this article about the science behind sapiosexuality http://iheartintelligence.com/2017/06/01/why-intelligence-is-sexy-to-sapiosexual/