Pornography

The word pornography is difficult to define. In the past it was used broadly to refer to sexually explicit words or images. Today, the meaning of the term has been narrowed somewhat to describe sexually explicit material that is considered offensive. But views about what is “offensive” vary widely. Pornography falls under the larger category of obscenity, another difficult-to-define term that refers to offensive or immoral—but not necessarily sexual—material. (Opposing Viewpoints)

• What are the legal distinctions between the terms erotic, obscene and pornographic?
• How has technology affected pornography?
• Does banning pornography impact the right to free speech?
• Does exposure to pornography affect sexual behavior? Is it addictive?
• Is pornography itself an act of violence against women?
• Does violent pornography increase masculine acceptance of aggression against women?
• Can morality be legislated? Do censorship laws create crimes without victims?
• Should pornography on the Internet be regulated?
• Compare feminist views on pornography.
• Should "virtual" child pornography be legal? Do adult bookstores create crime? Is there a link between pornography and child molesting?
• Should filtering software be installed on all public library computers?
• Is a teenager sexting another teenager delivering child pornography?