todd@scirtp.UUCP (Todd Jones) (09/10/85)
Much has been bandied about concerning pornography and its effects. I have a couple of comments. 1. Studies of pornography causing voilent behavior toward men have been highly inconclusive, showing at best, that only some men are affected this way. Some theorists even offer the hypothesis that some forms of pornography can alleviate sexual tension (when accompanied by masterbation). 2. If a link is proven between consuming pornography and increased aggressiveness toward women, does this absolve the individual from his actions? I think not. Legislating bans on pornography encourage the reasoning that the pornography is the real cause of violence toward women, not the perpetrator himself. With this link established and legislated accordingly, I can see rape trial versions of the "Twinkie Defense." Accused: "I didn't mean to rape her, but I had just become sexually and violently arounsed by XXX magazine and couldn't control myself." Jury: "Innocent on the grounds of temporary insanity." This scenario may seem ridiculous until you consider the wacky types of guilty by reasons of insanity pleas that have been used, in America, through the years. We must allow men and women to be exposed to any type of literature, art, and photography (except those forms of pornography that require the violation of human rights, e.g., child porn, snuff films) and hold those persons who commit violent crimes responsible for their actions. Love and High Fives, todd jones