Mark Hay

Writer, Freelance

Mark Hay is a writer on culture, faith, identity politics and sexuality. His work has appeared in Esquire and The Economist, among others. He is based in Brooklyn, New York.

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Written by Mark Hay

A Persian miniature painting of two people embracing on a patterned background, with intricate details and soft colours.

essaySex and sexuality

Islamic sexology

Popular stereotypes of Islam as a prudish religion ignore rich traditions of freewheeling, explicit erotica and advice

Mark Hay

Baroque painting depicting classical figures and a centaur abducting women with cherub and horse in background.

ideaSex and sexuality

Fantasies of forced sex are common. Do they enable rape culture?

Mark Hay

People in colourful traditional costumes and masks, holding staffs, participating in a cultural or religious procession.

essayReligion

Not your Tibetan Buddhism

Behind the beatific image of Tibetan Buddhism lies a dark, complicated reality. But is it one the Western gaze wants to see?

Mark Hay

Abstract digital artwork of a person in a sheer purple top with vibrant, neon colours highlighting their face and surroundings.

essayInformation and communication

Datagasm

Ever-faster feedback loops and micro-targeted digital porn are pushing human sexuality into some seriously weird places

Mark Hay