Feminist Perspectives of Prostitution After 1973
The debates surrounding prostitution is affected by a complexity of factors, of which are on philosophical, political, legal, economic, racial, and social levels. Feminist perspectives towards prostitution have been an evolving and expanding phenomena that aligns with political rifts and rifts within the feminist movement itself. As research shows, it is more complex than just the two perspectives of the marginalized radicals and the sex-positive liberals. Many factors affect attitudes towards prostitution for feminists, many of which are outlined in the principles of intersectionality. Values of economic freedom, female empowerment, male domination, religion, race, socioeconomic status, and many others diversify the debate for legalizing and normalizing the sex work industry.
Many have made the connection for prostitution to that of global sex trafficking, seeking both to find similarities and stark differences. While the debate is still polarizing and ongoing, some scholars defend that sex work promotes and fuels sex trafficking and scholars that defend prostitution, at least in some respects, claim it is a legitimate industry that includes voluntarily choice for many women.
Finally, in the wake of the global Covid pandemic, institutionality plays a critical role in the evaluation of those affected the most by the national shut down and socail distancing. Sex workers have the extremely difficult choice: socially isolate with no income, or work in a highly dangerous environment and risk of exposure. Support groups and activits are discussed, and their efforts to help sex workers proves to build support and a larger connected community in the sex work industry.