The great reproductivity of many insect species can be ascribed in part to the ability of the sexes to find one another for mating and propagation. This process is frequently mediated by sex attractant pheromones, chemicals emitted by one sex to attract one or both sexes for mating. In recent years, researchers have isolated, identified, and synthesized a number of these substances. Procedures used in their isolation and identification are discussed, and the sex attractants found are listed. Secondary chemicals and volatility regulators can augment pheromone action and are required for maximum effectiveness. Because sex attractants are utilized by many species of economic importance, attention is now being directed toward means of using these chemicals to combat insect pests. Sex pheromones that attract insects in the field have been effective in detecting infestations; their direct use in control is now being explored because these compounds can minimize the amount of insecticide needed for insect control, they can make the use of insecticides more selective in their attack, and in some instances they hold forth the possibility of eradication of highly injurious insect pests. In one approach sex‐lure‐baited traps ensnare insects before they can mate. In another, the atmosphere is permeated with sex lure; with attractant everywhere the insects cannot locate mates. Either approach is apt to lessen the disruptive effects of insecticides on the environment. Insect sex pheromones are expected to play an increasingly important role in future pest control strategy.