SSC and CCCC Concepts of Consent

The concept of consent in BDSM is that which is accepted and whose boundaries are defined through discussion between the parties. Ortmann and Sprott (2013) state that the conscious acceptance of the parties through consent distinguishes BDSM from abuse, and that the concept of consent in BDSM is:“Consent and permission, which are similar terms, mean that the person accepting the consent understands that they are part of a process that they are approving within this dynamic.”He clarifies the subject by summarizing it as follows: ” (p. 75). In the same source, the development of SSC (safe, sane, consensual) is discussed as a reaction to the widespread belief that BDSM is related to pathology* on the sadism and masochism side. Furthermore, Tuscott (Downing, 2007), BDSM The most frequent accusation leveled against those who adopt this lifestyle, coming from other segments of society, is that they are "violent." It is important to note that the foundations of this violence are primarily based on popular social discourses of psychopathology. Therefore, when discussing BDSM, it is not surprising that the starting points for people who adopt this lifestyle are psychological stability, consent, and security, and thus the foundation of the relationship is based on SSC (Sexual, Social, and Consciousness).

Despite the widespread use of SSC, some BDSM Practitioners eventually began to understand that the most popular of the BDSM consent concepts, SSC, would restrict more effective forms of application involving higher physical and psychological risks, and that it might reach a point of stagnation within the same formal structure, leading to new explorations. Risk, of course, is relative and can vary from person to person. For example, a Formula One driver might be able to take a corner at high speed, while many drivers could hardly do so safely. Similarly, BDSM They are diverse in terms of their relationships, physical and psychological capacities, and preferences.

1. OVERVIEW

The 4C concept was first introduced in 2014 as an academic paper by Williams, Thomas, Prior, & Christensen, from whom we have quoted a portion of this text.“Electronic Journal of Human Sexuality”It was published in "...".

The concept of RACK“Origin of RACK: RACK vs. SSC”The concept of SSC was first introduced by Garry Switch in 2000 with his article titled "...", while the concept of SSC was first introduced by (Slave) David Stein in 2002.“Safe Sane Consensual” The Making of a Shibboleth It entered our lives with an article titled [article title].

Beyond these general and well-known concepts involving the act of "agreement," there are actually three more concepts we wish to address in this article: "Process (Negotiation, Limit Setting, Revocable Consent, Aftercare), Pitagora, (2013))", PRICK (Personal Responsibility, Informed Consensual Kink), which evolved from RACK, and CCC (Committed Compassionate Consensual). However, we will skip this topic due to the time and research required.

Text by Richard von Krafft-Ebing (1886/1978) Sexual Psychopathy (Psychopathology of SexualitySince that time, it has been assumed that the basis of BDSM is motivated by psychopathology. Researchers have consistently shown that BDSM cannot be explained by psychopathology.Connelly 2006; Cross & Sprott 2009; Kolmes, Stock, & Moser, 2007Some scientists, BDSM They acknowledged that their relationships were not related to psychopathology, but could only be related to healthy leisure experiences and psychological states.Newmahr, 2010; Taylor & Ussher, 2001; Williams, 2006; Wismeijer & Van Assen, 2013).

In light of this shift, and more generally as a methodological strategy in the social sciences, with the development of community-based research, an exciting new development is formal collaboration between individuals with alternative sexual identities (including BDSM) and academics. This is exemplified by the Community-Academic Consortium for Research on Alternative Sexualities (CARAS)., https://carasresearch.org Founded in 2005, it combines the knowledge and strengths of academics and community members to produce high-quality information that can directly benefit the community.Sprott & Bienvenu II, 2007). Especially BDSM We highly recommend that you take a look at their work, as their projects and research in this field offer an opportunity to look at the subject from a broader perspective.

2. ETHICS

Passed from Greek to Latin ethos The concept of "ethics," derived from the word, means "the reflection of a people's or a civilization's way of thinking in culture."Türkoğlu 2003According to another definition, ethics is "the sum of the moral rules of conduct, laws, and principles adopted by certain human communities in a particular period, regulating the relationships between individuals."Nightingale 2001).

Morality has both an individual and a social aspect, as it regulates relationships between people and is influenced by social structures. Moral development is the process by which an individual acquires the rules, values, and culture of the society in which they live, guiding and determining their behavior. Furthermore, morality, with its theoretical and practical aspects, is a science and a field of education. Often used interchangeably, morality and ethics, despite having common aspects and being related, are distinct concepts. Ethics, which aims to reflect on morality, is one of the fundamental areas of philosophy. In this respect, ethics expresses the theoretical aspect of morality.Ulisa Bulletin, 2016).

Ethics is the totality of principles and values that determine human attitudes, behaviors, actions, and decisions in all areas of human relations, including social, cultural, political, economic, legal, scientific, and technological fields, from which no one can escape. Ethics can be defined as the identification of morally accepted individual, institutional, and social values and the use of these values as a fundamental measure in evaluating human behavior.Seib and Fitzpatrick 1997).

Neither SSC nor RACK are ethical principles. They are, in fact, slogans that best remind us of the fundamental things we need to know to make good choices and preferences in BDSM. Nothing is absolutely safe, and simply being aware of the risks doesn't help you decide whether it's worth taking. "Rationality" is also a relative term, and it's impossible to measure how rational someone is. As we will see below, compliance is not the solution to ethical dilemmas; instead, it's an examination of a more modern and ethically debatable set of layers (4Cs) in BDSM, based on trust that can be built through rational methods rather than consent.

Another criticism is "“Why do people choose BDSM even though they know they could be harmed and aware of the risks?”It begins with questions like, "..."“The primary reason for participation in BDSM is the desire to experience a different kind of sexual encounter, accompanied by pleasure and happiness. Isn't the risk essentially accepted from the outset? So why should we discuss this from an ethical/moral perspective?”"At this point, there lies another phenomenon of 'harm' that we unfortunately miss and fail to distinguish. Physical injuries can be repaired, but psychological injuries can cause permanent damage. In this sense, BDSM Even in this form, although unethical, it adopts the principle of avoiding harm as its fundamental tenet. So, what is the basis for our avoidance of ethics? Is it to protect ourselves from feelings of guilt? Or is it a fear of facing the truth?

3. A LOOK AT SSC

Safe:

The conscious acceptance and awareness of risk allows us to question the difference between the words "safe" and "safer." This questioning leads us to acknowledge the fact that, in interpersonal dynamics, it is impossible to completely eliminate risk.

Nothing is completely safe! If we want to confine BDSM to a safe zone... whip Let's use wet spaghetti instead.

Sane (Sane):

Even though it means a lot in terms of meaning, who would “that he/she is not in his/her right mind”"He acknowledges that, within the so-called "SSC" dynamic, the fact that there were deaths and injuries due to trampling with high-heeled shoes, and that there was probably "sanity" in these relationships, is an undeniable truth. Although I criticize the reasonable error and illogical approach in the naming, it must also be acknowledged that this contradictory statement is meaningless based on the theory that it is a conscious discourse. As I mentioned above, "“Intelligence is a relative term, and it's impossible to measure how rational someone is.”"”

Consensual:

The part about consenting also strikes me as utterly artificial. Even though we defended the SSC in our previous writings, I think it's time for some self-criticism now. BDSM Before they even begin their relationship, you know that famous contract... Well, the boundaries and red lines defined by it seem quite strange. The limits of someone who enjoys being whipped...“whipping”"the act of whipping without actually knowing how to whip"“consent”"Do we find this logical? Considering the action hasn't happened yet, what do we mean by '...'?"“consent was given”"Isn't that ridiculous?"

The stronger side BDSM something he could hold onto as a trump card against every criticism in his relationship.“You agreed to this.”The phrase "consent obtained before the relationship," without specifying situational and environmental variables, actually serves no purpose other than acting as a one-sided protector, and in the relationship dynamics, the submissive/slave-leaning parties usually suffer. In our country, "“consent”This is one of the structural shortcomings of the "phenomenon" and the root of the problems that lead to its criticism.

4. OVERVIEW OF CCCC (Consent, Communication, Caring, Caution)

This is exactly where the “r” layer, common to both RACK and SSC, comes into play.to be a minority / to consent (consent / consensual)”"It seems to have been created incorrectly and is inadequate. The '4C Framework,' proposed to explain and make sense of this inadequacy, appears to us to be more consistent and error-free.".

In the 4C layer structure, "Consent" is the first layer. This is also the layer used commonly by both RACK and SSC.

To agree / Consent:

The concept of consent, BDSM It is central to academic research and all popular perspectives. Is this concept a kind of defense of BDSM, or simply an attempt to show beginners a fundamental element that distinguishes BDSM from violence and other forms of abuse? However, despite this central role of consent – explicitly expressed in the acronyms SSC and RACK – we believe the concept of consent has not evolved, and has failed to achieve the much-needed clarity it deserves. Although some academics have also pointed to this ambiguity.Barker, 2013), as part of the abbreviation for 4Cs“consent“, BDSM It is based on the understanding that the community can communicate in a more sophisticated and detailed way.

The fundamental problem with consent is that it doesn't have a clear and unambiguous yes/no quality. In relationships, it's about what the consenting parties are agreeing to, how they are agreeing, under what conditions, and under what conditions they are not agreeing.which is not something everyone agrees onThey resort to the word "safety." So what is the purpose of the word "safety"? The very existence of this brake pedal shows that the common point, or even the key point, of SSC and RACK is flawed. Considering this foundation, we are again trying to update the checklists on the internet, which are generally unexplanatory and superficial, and contrary to our cultural structure and Turkish way of life, making them more usable and functional.

When the answer to the question "Do you like bondage?" during the getting-to-know-each-other process is "yes," the main point that is often overlooked is the lack of clarity regarding "types and levels of bondage." For this reason, our checklist lists five different levels.Light bondage, heavy bondage, suspension, bondage for a few days, bondage under clothing in social settings, etc.And the reason we specified these levels was because we understood the inadequacy of the act of "giving consent.".

For this reason, RACK has addressed what has been consented to as anti-SSC and has added risk awareness to its layers. This formation, which developed in opposition to the tedious structural nature of a process that continues without pushing boundaries, represents a significant and increasingly commonplace development. BDSM Many people, based on their experiences, believe that the time has come to take risks.
This ambiguous nature of consent was recognized in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and as a sub-layer to the concept of "agreement," it was defined as:’surface consent”"It was added that the problem realized in relationship types where people used 'yes' for agreeing and 'no' for disagreeing was that 'yes' meant 'yes' and 'no' meant 'no'. Whereas a person simply '“is interested”It could also be "yes/no." This could encompass all situations that weren't simply met by the "yes/no" qualifier.

A second level of consent, possibly. BDSM This can happen through the parties discussing/negotiating the actions they will take during their relationship. Even in this case, it is insufficient.“consent”The ambiguity of the "action" during the relationship leads us to what we mentioned above.“safe word”The issue of setting boundaries using the word "safety" comes up. Let's say you're tickling someone, and you've negotiated that you will tickle them before the relationship begins. Physically, this isn't a harmful act. But the situation changes completely when your partner uses the safe word. It's essentially a case of withdrawing consent given knowing that no physical harm will occur, even though it involves pushing the boundaries of mental and neurological activity. This ambiguity creates a paradox that cannot be overcome in any sequence, becoming an obstacle when you try to push or expand those boundaries.

As can be seen, consent is scattered and spread over a very wide area within both the SSC and RACK layers. However, a more nominal and formal structure that is simple, understandable, and clear would be a healthy approach. BDSM It is essential for the relationship. Therefore, the "communication" layer 2.C, which is missing in both SSC and RACK, appears.

Communication:

According to one definition, communication is a process involving the exchange of messages between two entities (Spencer and Wilson, 1988). Another definition states that communication is the process of sending, receiving, processing, resending, receiving again, and reprocessing meaningful symbols between individuals (İnceoğlu, 1993).
Skills that enable healthier communication can be summarized as effective listening and effective response. These skills include asking detailed and appropriate questions, summarizing, repeating in other words, responding with keywords, describing and appropriately reflecting the other person's behavior, words, and feelings; testing whether someone understands; and giving effective feedback.Coursen and Thomas, 1989).

As a branch of ethical philosophy, it deals with the characterization of values that form the basis of human relationships as morally good or bad, right or wrong. It is argued that the modern understanding of ethics is based on the knowledge-power relationship and that these two branches complement each other.Kodal, 2003, pp. 36-37).

BDSM In their relationship, partners understand the importance of discussing personal boundaries as a foundation for good communication.Scott, 1997They began to understand that people have different limits, and that these limits can change depending on the time, the current situation, and their mood. This situation led to Adler's work on individual psychology. BDSM This has become even more established through its frequent discussion within the community. It is an undeniably accepted principle that communication between partners should not be limited to the pre-relationship period but should also encompass their emotional states after the relationship begins.

Many scientists believe that good communication... BDSM that establishing a positive relationship is one of the most important factors (Cutler, 2003) indicates. Cutler (2003), active BDSM Cutler interviewed 33 people in BDSM relationships, and 19 of them stated that "good" communication was the most important factor in a BDSM relationship. Cutler noted that her participants believed that communication was crucial to prevent unwanted physical or emotional harm. BDSM in their applications (“compared to "vanilla" applicationsThese individuals stated that the need for better communication is more important., BDSM They valued the openness and transparency in their relationships. BDSM A key principle of the practice is to create a mutual exchange of power. All participating practitioners, BDSM To ensure that the experience is mutually enjoyable and safe, it is essential that they communicate about the structures and processes involved in this change.Kleinplatz & Moser, 2006).

Because there is no unifying theory in understanding BDSM, and people can vary in their general physiology, psychological state, past experiences, beliefs, erotic preferences, and motivations for participation, comprehensive communication contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of how participants can express their subjective realities, care, and support. Communication facilitates and deepens richer personal knowledge, care, and intimacy, allowing participants to explore more daunting forms of play that might otherwise complicate consent. Therefore, communication is a crucial bridge between care and attention, potentially leading to the deeper consent described above.

For a person's desire for interpersonal socialization to be realized, they need to communicate with and understand other individuals correctly. From this perspective, communication, by its very nature, is not just... BDSM It ceases to be a topic we discuss at the grassroots level. In all known human societies, the behavior of women and men differs in terms of primary and secondary gender characteristics.Munroe and Munroe 1975As can be understood, communication varies according to individuals and gender. This, BDSM When we reflect this in the context of gender, it would be more accurate to think of it as an "orientation.".

Care (Attention) / Caring:

“I think it would be more appropriate to use the word "caring," which is its equivalent in Turkish, by expanding its meaning beyond its current definition. Even though this word, mentioned in the original 4C frameworks, was used for ethical purposes, I believe limiting it solely to maintenance is problematic in Turkish. BDSM It is not socially sufficient for their communities. Therefore, I think it would be more accurate to use the term "Care/Effort".

Historically, Western thought suggested that justice and morality should be based on observable, empirical truths applicable to all people, places, and things.Buhle & Buhle, 1978; Gilligan, 1982; Wollstonecraft, 1988And from this perspective, the concept of "care" was an idea built on moral integrity. Feminist researcher and writer Noddings (1984/2013With his book titled "Caring," the ethics of care/nurturing has become a distinct intellectual movement. "Caring" should be more than just a meaningful word; it should encompass an ethical understanding nurtured by a moral process. In this regard... BDSM We see a lack of research conducted under this umbrella and a failure to develop an ethical understanding, as is the case within LGBT communities. Of course, this might not be the case for an organization that hasn't yet begun to institutionalize, but the inability to create platforms for discussion through individual and academic research is one of the biggest reasons for this.

According to Kant, moral principles and ideas are based on universalizable rules and do not change depending on any condition, rule, or individual. Therefore, they are always and everywhere valid. From this perspective, the "Soviet Socialist Party" within the Soviet Union...“sane”"This is gaining importance because reason and rationality are the only means by which a person can establish their moral responsibilities. Reaching moral rules through rational means and acting in accordance with moral rules is the most important element that makes a person free. Thus, the individual is defined within an autonomous structure, and the individual's moral obligation is addressed within their own reason and responsibility."R. Çelik, 2016)

At this point, "care" emerges as a variable and integrated phenomenon depending on the individual. When we think deeply about it, the psychological competence and level of care we can provide, how well we can internalize this care, and our ability to empathize are the only ethical issues we need to consider. The fact that the goal is to provide care on a moral level brings us to the point where we need to think conceptually and have the capacity to manage harm.

According to Noddings (2012), the caregiver first turns to the person being cared for and tries to understand their needs. Their assessment of the behaviors they will exhibit in response to these needs should include answers to the following questions: Am I competent enough to meet this need? Will I have to make excessive sacrifices to meet this need? Could this really be the best behavior for the person being cared for? Could this behavior damage the caregiving relationship between us?Noddings 2012)

Feminist researchers (Jaggar 1992; Tong 2013; Vikan, Camino, & Biaggio 2005), argues that an ethical understanding of care is grounded in the belief systems of all genders. Viewing the world through a lens of care ethics brings diverse perspectives to decision-making processes. “A dialogical approach to moral issues includes mindfulness, responsibility, responsiveness, and discussing and observing attitudes to view issues from different perspectives.”Orme, 2002, p. 810)

Together, the subjective perspective suggests that all individuals have unique lived experiences and, consequently, unique understandings of the events given.For example, sexuality and BDSM to its activityIt encompasses the belief regarding the relationship between perspectives. “Broadly speaking, we address shared subjectivity to refer to the diversity of possible relationships between people’s viewpoints.”Gillespie & Cornish, 2010, p. 19Gillespie & Cornish summarize it as follows: Intersubjectivity stands in contrast to the positivist (objective) definition of the social phenomenon, which posits that individual understandings of a phenomenon are fluid, relational, and constantly changing within the context in which it is experienced, and that scientific knowledge can only be derived from rigorous, verifiable, and replicable experiments.Ponterotto, 2005In contrast, collective subjectivity suggests that each individual contains unique experiences, abilities, and identities (layers), and therefore it is impossible to translate all possible understandings into an objective truth. Counter-subjectivity also requires us to reflect on our personal beliefs about sexuality, to embrace our beliefs and each person's unique understanding.

Physical care can be provided using predictable methods with a specific scientific basis. Even if training on how to provide care is necessary, the requirement for basic knowledge is, in fact, an indispensable condition for all relationship dynamics.Benjamin, 1995From this perspective, we can say:“caring”The absence of the "fact" in SSC and RACK should be seen as a major and fundamental flaw. Our fundamental argument is that SSC's limited and superficial approach is filled with abstract concepts rather than addressing a "fact." Let's recall the variables in the "whip" example we gave while trying to explain this. This logical perspective is similar to the "Ay" proposition mentioned by A. Ayer.Language, Truth and Logic, p. 14).

BDSM For individuals adopting this lifestyle, self-perception exercises related to their sexual preferences, defining their own sexual values and behaviors, and questioning discrimination and prejudice regarding sexual practices that are inappropriate or contrary to this definition by participating in platforms that explore these issues are important for understanding and recognizing them.For example, attending seminars organized by LGBT groups, such as KaosGL...Awareness and overcoming prejudices will make your interactions more meaningful and allow you to internalize your mistakes in your attitude towards your partner.

Caution:

Like communication and care ethics, the task of attention ethics is to establish formal norms that can serve as a measure for judging only material norms, and to define these norms by paying attention to, caring for, and observing the individual's spheres of freedom.Pieper, 1999, pp. 154-155).

The term "attention" advises us to act with mastery of all three fundamental elements described above. We can demonstrate our sensitivity regarding communication, consent, and care by paying attention and reflecting it in our behavior. Understanding the dynamics of our relationships with more care, sensitivity, and awareness is fundamental to "attention." It is also the key element that enables us to be proactive in identifying and mitigating potential risks. Examining our partner's skin and learning about their nervous system when choosing the appropriate rope for bondage are examples of this attentive approach.

If the word "safe" is used to reflect the extent of a relationship where risk is known or avoided, it naturally contains a significant amount of flexibility and variation. The issue here is whether we possess the tools to facilitate understanding of situations that are unique to each individual (subjective). Caution and trust can be equal layers, or they can become opposing layers. The event that arises as a result of a variable that is applied or not considered when taking a risk will be unexpected, and the consequences will be severe if a response to the unexpected situation has not been developed beforehand.

Attention is shaped more by environmental factors than by a single definition. BDSM When used in the context of relationships, it presupposes understanding each dynamic within the relationship, considering its consequences, and expanding behaviors within this framework. Risk-awareness at the RACK level is essentially a state of being suspended in mid-air. Because it is a fact that risk awareness is impossible in a context where there is no act of attention.

Notes / Explanations:

Psychopathology, Psychology is the branch of research that studies disorders of emotion, thought, and behavior, mental distress, and abnormal/maladaptive behavior. In psychiatry, the term pathology is generally used to refer to the disease process. In non-medical psychology, abnormal psychology is also referred to as psychopathology.

Intersubjectivity, Primarily used in phenomenological sociology, this term describes how social relations are established on a reciprocal basis. According to this view, people can reach a consensus (at least, in the case of not claiming objectivity, in the form of a functioning agreement) about information or experiences in their life worlds.

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