The doctrine of mutually assured destruction (MAD) is a fitting analogy and guide for dating and sex and the types of bonds that we form from these interpersonal relationships. Why some couples stay together (or why some bonds last) and why others ultimately split up (and why some bonds crash), often speaks to self-preservation. People in relationships - serious or casual - stay in or leave those relationships based on what Said calls the "theory of mutual self-destruction" (TMSD). As an umbrella term, TMSD serves as an excellent pathway to exploring the nature of dating and sexual relationships. Dating & Sex: The Theory of Mutual Self-Destruction is an anthology of essays written by a number of different writers from all walks a life, from around the world. Edited by Amir Said, this profound and in-depth collection offers a great deal of insight into relationships, modern dating, and sex.