For decades, pornography has been centralized in conversations related to censorship, morality, and societal values. With the prevalence of misinformation and conflicting claims influencing public opinion and policy, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction to make well-informed decisions and write legislation that protects our human right to free expression. By debunking common misconceptions, we can address real concerns more effectively and avoid basing arguments on faulty premises or exaggerated claims.
Anti-porn advocates argue that pornography websites increase the prevalence of non consensual intimate images (NCII) or “revenge porn.” However, research shows that these sites are predominantly not where revenge porn is shared. More effective regulation and comprehensive sex education would be more effective at protecting NCII victims than banning pornography websites.
Pornography has been a frequent scapegoat for a variety of social, sexual and cultural ills. Anti-porn advocates claim that pornographic content is addictive, harmful, and dangerous for human brain development. However, research shows that pornography is not addictive nor is it harmful to the majority of consumers.
Anti-porn advocates argue pornography increases rates of sex trafficking. However, incidences of sex trafficking linked to the legal adult industry are incredibly rare and there is no research that links pornography viewership with increased violence or exploitation in the industry itself.
Anti-porn advocates have argued that viewing pornography can harm sexual function and desire within intimate relationships but research suggests that porn alone is not a cause for these issues. Instead, focusing on increasing sexual wellness, treatment for sex-related anxieties, and sex education would likely offset many of the challenges facing adults today.
There is heightened fear about minors accessing inappropriate sexual content as porn has become more accessible online. However, there simply isn’t enough research to actually know how often minors are accessing porn. We do know that filters or blockers, when used consistently and correctly, are effective at protecting young people from viewing sexual content.
Pornography is often blamed for promoting sexual violence and aggression. However, arguments supporting this idea are often based on flawed research. Sound research has actually found that watching porn does not cause an increase in sex crimes or evoke harmful attitudes towards women.
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