Pornography, Feminism, Confusion

Pornography: Men possessing women
This article touched upon a lot of the personal conflict I feel about pornography: liberation, free will vs. confinement and oppression. The most interesting piece of the article for me was the area in which the author examines how sex work is not considered a human rights violation. It struck me when the author compared sex work to slavery and torture. It is not something that most think about in this severe of terms but it does feel appropriate when put in this context. The voice in this article stuck with me for days after reading and has made me think again deeper about the perpetual violation of women and girls. Not only is this not thought of in this way- but we are raised to believe that this IS an exception to sexual assault, rape or sexual violence. When in truth, I don't believe it is. I don't think that all women are consenting in the way that many people think they are.

A Feminist Argument Against Censorship:
I read a research study years ago that found that people who watch pornography become normalized to sexual violence and are less likely to be disturbed by sexually violent imagery, video, or real life experiences. Additionally, they are more likely to be in violent relationships. I understand that this is only one study with many of variables but I have always thought about it and it has shaped my opinion of the porn industry. I am inclined to say that most porn does not depict women in a liberating way and therefore does not challenge sexism or put forth the liberating sexual identity we, as feminists, are trying to create for women in media. I am inclined to say that I believe in some censorship because I hope that through it we will prevent people from becoming numb to violent behavior. This article has helped shape my thoughts about the negative aspects of censorship and through it we erase some of the messages or thoughts we are trying to propagate. I am just not sure at what cost I am comfortable with. Without some censorship we run the risk of violent behavior and numbness. With it, we run the risk of denial of freedom of speech and thought.

A Feminist Defense of Pornography:
This article talks about the study I wrote about above and dispels some of the conclusions that this study (and others like it) came up with. It was valid and I hope to do some more in depth research on my own to decide which study I would align myself best with. I find this article difficult to comment on because I don't have enough personal knowledge on the topic. I would like to read a book about the historical precedence on pornography. Additionally, I would be interested in learning more about the legal rights and protection of women. It would also be helpful to look at interviews, documentary's and other personal accounts from women who have actually been in the profession. I have difficulty maintaining a particular position without more information. I am glad this article brings up some of the arguments both for and against because it gives me a nice base to begin my research upon.