Pornographic Representation Of Women

In Feminist settings, conversations surrounding pornographic content and its influence are often polarizing; the discrepancy of attitudes towards pornography between opposing parties can be acrimonious and fraught with tension. Radical feminists tend to take up an anti-pornography stance, citing concerns of the representation of women, violent and sexist practices of the pornography industry and violence that correlates with the consumption of pornography. Liberal, sex-positive feminists have sought to reform the industry and assert that representations of sexuality are not only morally neutral but also allow women to explore their sexualities. Those in opposition to the censorship of pornography claim that it is tantamount to the violation of freedom of speech. Despite efforts to reframe …show more content…
The widespread use of pornography and increasing pornification of other media is dangerous, as it encourages sexual violence and reinforces a sexist worldview through use of misogynistic tropes and stereotypes. Pornography ultimately dehumanizes women, contributes to their subordination and reinforces the patriarchal commodification of the female body.
One of the main issues surrounding the topic of pornography is the implications that arise amidst pornographic representations of women. Representation matters; representations of specific groups often dictate how those groups will be viewed and treated. In Passing and Trespassing in the Academy: On Whiteness as Property and Racial Performance as Political Speech, author Charles Lawrence discusses representations and racial performance. Lawrence examines iconic representations of African Americans, such as the Sambo doll, minstrel