The Impact of Pornography on Society: A Deep Dive into Porn Videos
Over the last decade, far-reaching changes have occurred in the way people consume and make porn videos. Vastly different from the days of cable TV shows featuring pixelated images and low-resolution content, the growth of video streaming services and the ubiquity of advanced camera technology has given rise to a large and profitable industry. From the “gonzo” films popularized in the ‘90s to the wide range of content on platforms like Pornhub and XVideos, pornography has grown into a complex and pervasive issue that society still hasn’t fully grappled with.
The traditional definition of pornography is “sexually explicit material intended to arouse.” To understand how this affects society, we must consider the various ways in which pornography is distributed and consumed. According to the report Progressions and Pathways of Pornography Consumption: Gender Differences and Non-Linearity, the vast majority of internet porn is viewed by single, heterosexual men. Over 75% of Britons aged 18-34 reported having watched porn in the past month, and men are more likely to have viewed porn than women of all ages.
In the U.S., the production and distribution of porn videos is regulated by the 2257 Regulations, which require producers to keep records verifying age and identity of performers. In addition, 18 U.S.C. 2257 explicitly states that “anyone producing or distributing materials involving anyone under the age of 18 will be prosecuted.”
With porn so easily accessible, it’s likely that most people have seen or will eventually see some sort of pornography at some point in their lives. This has implications for our culture as a whole, but especially our youth. Studies have shown that frequent exposure to porn can shape young people’s attitudes towards sex and can even lead to a distorted view of relationships and consent. As such, it’s important for parents, educators, and other adults to be aware of the potential risks posed by explicit material.
Of course, not all aspects of pornography are negative. For some, it can be a form of entertainment, a way to learn about sexuality and find new ways to spice up their relationships. A growing number of feminists advocate for the ethical production of porn videos, arguing that it has the potential to be a liberating form of expression.
In the end, it’s up to individuals to make their own decisions about pornography. There’s no denying the vast reach and impact of porn videos in our society, and it’s important to be mindful of the potential implications before engaging with them. By highlighting the risks and offering guidance on how to safely consume sexually explicit material, society can better educate its citizens about the power of pornography.
