ABSTRACT
A core belief of those engaged in sex research is that broad and deep knowledge about sexuality and reproduction is a necessary perquisite for a healthy society and respectful human rights. Simply put, knowledge can and does save lives. Research is one pathway to knowledge and is valuable because its methods are ‘public’ and available for critique, replication, confirmation or revision. In this chapter, I aim to connect together the initial and current trajectory of the Kinsey Institute’s efforts to research sex, gender and reproduction with the larger attempt to understand and improve the human condition with regard to sexuality. While there might be many approaches to this topic, I have selected the theme of innovation with which to organise these comments. Innovation emphasises two key aspects of research: to truly innovate, one must be aware of the past, and, since innovation is trying to exert a change in an uncertain or unwilling environment, there is a greater risk of failure.
