Collegiate Times

Research varies, but the pornography industry in America is presumed to gross anywhere from $1 billion to $4 billion in annual revenue. This is quite a number for a country considered sexually conservative when compared to its other Western counterparts. Porn has been the source of incredible controversy, accused of increasing the incidence of sexually based crimes. Porn has also been accused of promoting unrealistic body images, relationships, practices and even teaching sex as a vehicle for violence and drug use.

However, on an individual basis, attitudes about porn vary widely. Even fields of study such as psychology have shifted over the decades in their beliefs about this dark and contentious pastime. While there are no hard and fast positive associations between pornography and increases in sex crimes, it is also no secret that porn-addictions exist and the industry has at times provided dubious if not desperate means to entertain its audience. At what cost does it? So, let’s talk generally about pornography and its worth in our society.

The greatest opposition for the removal or censorship of pornography in the media is that is sets a precedent for censorship in general. Some people believe they have a tacit right to view naked bodies in a way that pleases them. It is not as though nudity is thrust upon the public unexpectedly. You have to subscribe to “Playboy”; it doesn’t just show up in your mailbox. Similarly, one must actively seek out a Web site. Despite what some believe, it does not simply pop up while you’re reading a Wikipedia article.

It is also potentially difficult to draw the line between artful nudes and what some would consider pornography. Where do Americans’ notions about sex and pleasure leave artful depictions of the naked male and female forms in the debate over sexually explicit material? Would that too be considered pornography? Technically, pornography is the depiction of sexual subject matter for the use of sexual pleasure.

Certainly, at least for some, even the statue of David meets that broad standard. But then again, other definitions define pornographic depictions as having no artistic merit whatsoever, rendering the decision between the two voids. But the same has been said for works of modern art as well, so whose opinion do we turn to?

Supporters of banning pornography make a variety of interesting and powerful indictments against pornography. While the feminist community has long been split on its opinions regarding this industry, those against it believe it is demeaning to women, promoting  violence, rape and subjugation.

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A version of this article appeared in the Feb 23 issue of the Collegiate Times.