NCJ Number
97322
Date Published
1985
Length
18 pages
Annotation
From the feminist perspective, pornography and rape are manifestations of a larger system that fosters violence against women; this system is part of the social system of male dominance and female subordination.
Abstract
Feminist literature treats child sexual abuse, child prostitution, rape, and pornography as though they are the same phenomenon. Feminists believe that society subordinates women in all its classes, all its ethnic and racial groups, and all its major institutions. Pornography and other crimes share three important similarities: their focus on females, men acting coercively toward women, and the affective responses of women. Pornography is always an expression of disrespect and even hatred for women. Feminists have linked child pornography to pornography in general. However, the anticensorship view of most American feminists has not extended to pornography portraying children. Feminist efforts have criticized portrayals of violence against women in movies, on record covers, and in pornography. Three national feminist antipornography organizations have been formed, and a variety of other groups also are active. Feminists have also criticized male-dominated research on pornography. Pornography directly hurts women because it sexually objectifies them, teaches men that women enjoy violence, confuses some women about receiving pleasure through pain, and teaches women to endure rape and violence. Feminist efforts will continue in the areas of theoretical analysis, action, and research. The ultimate goal in fighting pornography is to achieve equality and freedom for women. Notes and a list of 29 references are supplied.