Representations of Sperm in

Abstract Books about human reproduction produced for English-speaking children both construct and perpetuate processes of social reproduction. This social reproduction takes place within the context of capitalist, patriarchal and heteronormative socio-cultural norms. Information about human reproduction is ‘processed ’ and ‘distilled ’ for the young – it is made sterile and perfected. For the purposes of this analysis, 18 children’s books were interpreted. It is within these sections that I build a theory about the transference that occurs between humans and cells. I also develop a nascent theory about the interconnectedness of disembodiment and anthropomorphism. Through the use of the constant comparative method, I conclude with a discussion of the process of sperm taking on the role of social reproducer of culture in secular books whereas God assumes this role in Christian books