Pornography
From Encyclopedia of Sex and Sexuality
Pornography is defined by the law and society as materials or performances that portray a humiliating, cruel, demeaning, or exploitative view of sex, without artistic content or merit. The courts have always had difficulties defining precisely what constitutes pornography; one member of the United States Supreme Court observed that, while he could not give an exact definition of pornography, he knew it when he saw it.
On the other hand, sex therapists sometimes want one or both partners to be highly aroused when beginning a sexual encounter. They may, therefore, recommend reading pornographic stories, looking at pornographic pictures, or watching a pornographic video. Such material is usually called “sexually explicit” or “erotic”: pornography is a pejorative term and a nonjudgmental one is preferred. To therapists, an arousing story or picture is neither filthy nor damaging. It is simply an aid to arousal.
This casual attitude toward pornography can put sex therapists at odds with certain politicians and religious leaders. In fact, if it ever became difficult for clients to buy pornography, a system of “prescription porn” might be necessary. It is unfortunate that the creators of pornographic material are not always admirable citizens who just want to promote good sex. Some films involve forced performances, genuine cruelty in rough sex sequences, and worst of all, the exploitation of children as participants in sex scenes. Of course, this should be eliminated and existing laws against such activities must be strictly enforced. No one should be exploited in that way merely to help suburban couples improve their sex lives.
Furthermore, young children and developing adolescents might derive poor images of sex from watching and reading pornography. However, since such materials are widespread and easily available, it is up to parents to keep their children otherwise occupied.
