Discuss the three major feminist criticisms of pornography. Are these criticisms valid?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

There are three basic criticisms feminists raise against pornography. First, they argue that pornography debases women. In milder versions, it portrays women as sex objects; in hard-core versions, it shows women in demeaning roles. Second, pornography associates sex with violence toward women and thus contributes to rape and other forms of violence against women and girls. Third, pornography glamorizes unequal power relationships between women and men. Consistent with this point, feminists do not object to sexual materials that portray women and men in equal, humanized relationships. Feminists also note the intimate relationship between pornography and traditional gender roles: pornography results from traditional gender roles and in turn, may serve to perpetuate traditional gender roles.

 

Many of these criticisms are valid. In a comparison of the portrayal of men and the portrayal of women, it was found that there were significant differences. Seven measures allowed comparison of these portrayals. On one measure, not having an orgasm, women were significantly higher than men. On three measures, less time spent looking at the camera, less time spent talking to the camera, and less likely to initiate sex, men were significantly higher than women. On three final measures, having a name, being a central character, and time spent talking, there were no differences. These findings give credence to the feminist objections to pornography.