Prostitution

The issue of prostitution is one that consists of a large amount of controversy. In class we discussed the important questions raised throughout the readings on this topic of prostitution. Although it is an issue of large controversy, I think that some of the readings made extremely valid points in relation to this topic. The question of oppression in relation to prostitution, in my mind, is answered with an immediate yes. Without having read any of these articles, I would have stated that prostitution as a profession is oppressive to women, because it makes it seem as though it is the only profession that woman could obtain. After reading Ericson’s article, I would agree that in addition, it is largely due to our attitude towards prostitution and sexuality as a society. Although Ericson raises this very valid point, I do not agree with some of the ways in which this issue is backed up. Ericson states that the connection this profession has with body and self services is similar to that of the profession of massage. I do not find this to be the case at all, in fact, I think that especially if going by the terms in which Ericson views negative aspects of prostitution to be a result of society. Massage therapists, and people of similar professions are not remotely viewed in the same ways that prostitutes are viewed. In addition, I believe that Ericson's argument referring to legalizing prostitution has some faults in it as well. Ericson argues that if prostitution is legalized, violence will go away. If society continues to view prostitution and sexuality as negative, violence will continue to occure. Pateman argues that prostitution is male domination over women, which in essence is violence. Therefore, prostitution whether legal or not, will continue to remain a violent act.