What is Gor?
Considered a nuanced form of BDSM lifestyle, Gorean dynamics are inspired by the science fiction novels of the Gor series.
Authored by John Lange under the pseudonym John Norman, the series takes its name from the planet on which the stories take place.
Norman’s novels describe a world of male dominance and female submission. In very general terms, Gor is a planet ruled by an insect-like race known as the Priest Kings. Priest Kings oversee the planet in more of a custodial fashion, believing they are preventing Goreans from self-destruction at the hands of their own technology. Whilst these insectoid overlords sometimes go to battle against their nemesis, the Kurli, the books primarily focus on Gorean natives and captured Earthlings.
Goreans are much like Earthling men, but they are stronger and bigger. Warring tribes set up city states across the planet, all of which are male-ruled. Gorean culture views women as second-class citizens at best.
The types of women in Gor can be broken down into three subcategories: Freewomen, Panther Girls, and Kajira.
Freewomen are not exactly free. They live under male rule, wear veils, and are taught from an early age to submit and obey. Much like real-world women were taught for centuries, a freewoman should never discuss sex or display any enjoyment of the act. They view sex as a duty, and the pleasure of the man comes above all else. Female enjoyment of sex is viewed as having little or no relevance.
Panther Girls (aka “Taluna” Girls) are the rebels of Gor. They are made up of Freewomen who have left behind their conservative upbringing, or they are escaped slaves. They live in forests and hunt and live together in packs.
Kajirae are sex slaves. Kajira (fem.) are a mix of Freewomen who resisted male dominance, captured Panther Girls, and women raised from birth for slavery, or they are kidnapped Earthlings.
Albeit clearly wrought with antiquated views on sex and gender, the relationship between kajira and Gorean men arguably shaped and popularized many of the BDSM protocols and tenets that still exist in today's subculture.
Gorean Subculture in BDSM
Whilst some truists may try to convince you that Gor represents how BDSM is supposed to be practiced, this fictional series is a dark place rife with abuse and violence against women. That said, as with many controversial kinks, when put into the context of kink and BDSM, these stories can form empowering and self-fulfilling power dynamics between Masters and slaves who are drawn to the Gorean approach.
Real Life Gorean slaves and kajira
Submissives within the Gorean subculture will take on the title of slave or kajira (or kajirus in the case of a male slave), viewing their ability to serve their Master as a privilege. In Gorean approaches to BDSM, a slave is seen much as the kajirae in the books - they’re expected to serve without complaint or resistance and with utter perfection. On the planet Gor, kajirae are also dehumanized as property. Whilst that property is cared for, it is only as one might take care of their car or their home.
Submissives who are drawn to the role of kajira/kajiru or slave often enjoy the mental challenges involved in being “trained” by their Master. Under their Master, they feel the freedom to be who they are at their core. The role of kajirae can also be a means for some individuals to escape the pressures of their everyday lives, drawn in by the allure of relinquishing their ego and control to someone else.
Kinksters who identify as Gorean slaves may also enjoy the intellectual components of learning Gorean positions and commands, adherence to strict rules and protocols, and what pleases their Master most… or they could simply be a huge fan of the books!
Real Life Gorean Masters
In the Gorean subculture, Gorean Masters approach kajirae with the understanding that it is their duty to nurture and to challenge their partner on intellectual and emotional levels. Masters will help their kajirae to feel a deep trust and security with them to the point that they are able to fall into the space where they can fully let go of any hesitations about who they are and what’s expected of them in the scene or dynamic.
Gorean Masters tend to use consistent, strict (aka ‘high’) protocols and rules that are based on rewards and punishments. Depending on their approach, these Masters can vary on the spectrum of strictness, but their ultimate goal is to consensually own their partner’s body and spirit. For those drawn to these partnerships, such dynamics can be deeply fulfilling and meaningful.
Safety Considerations for Gorean Dynamics
These approaches are a form of emotional S&M that can have lasting psychological impacts in the real world. It’s important to discuss all potential risks associated with mental conditioning or ‘slave training’ with your partner. You can review many of the risks in our risk mitigation guide on emotional S&M. Those with a history of codependency are also encouraged to discuss past behaviours and concerns with their partner.
