Sociological Perspectives on Pornography
Definition: The depiction of sexual behavior on
such a way as to excite the viewer sexually.
As a Social Problem
• Openness of its distribution
• Tendency to become concentrated in an area
so that it affects whole neighborhoods
• Exploitation of children in the production of
pornographic materials.
Censorship
Definition: Suppression of pornographic material
Those for Censorship Argue:
• Pornography too widespread
– Difficult to escape (internet; movies)
– Habitual exposure is harmful
Against Censorship
• Damaging to artistic and literary efforts
• Vagueness of legal definition gives subjective power
to judges
• Reading/viewing is private and does not harm
society
• If legal, educated people will become bored with it
and turn to mere worthwhile entertainment.
Social Policy
1. Roth vs U.S. (1975)
A. Application of “community standards”
B. Allowed in zoned districts
2. In Detroit (1970)
A. Adult establishments had to be at least ½ mile apart