In this engaging conversation, Kelsey Burke, an associate professor of sociology and author of 'The Pornography Wars,' unpacks the intricate history of pornography in America. She explores the tug-of-war between feminist perspectives, the religious right, and sex worker rights, shedding light on their commonalities and conflicts. Burke also delves into societal perceptions of pornography addiction, challenging stigmas and presenting hidden narratives. Her insights on personal identity, morality, and the evolution of anti-porn movements make this a thought-provoking listen.
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A Personal Journey with Jesus and Playboy
Kelsey Burke shares her personal journey from a non-religious upbringing to a devout Baptist teenager.
Simultaneously, she discovered her father's Playboy collection, leading to a fascination with the magazine.
insights INSIGHT
Feminist Arguments Against Porn
Anti-porn feminists argue that pornography harms women by coercing them into degrading scenes and glorifying rape culture.
They see pornography as reinforcing patriarchal norms and reducing women to sex objects.
insights INSIGHT
Sex-Positive Feminist Perspective on Porn
Porn-positive feminists and sex workers argue for diverse forms of pornography, some empowering.
They emphasize performer autonomy and critique the industry's broader capitalist context.
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The Pornography Wars: The Past, Present, and Future of America's Obscene Obsession
The Pornography Wars: The Past, Present, and Future of America's Obscene Obsession
The Past, Present, and Future of America's Obscene Obsession
Kelsey Burke
Kelsey Burke's "The Pornography Wars" offers a comprehensive examination of the complex and often contradictory debates surrounding pornography in America. The book delves into the historical context of obscenity laws and the evolution of the pornography industry, tracing its impact on society and culture. Burke explores the perspectives of various stakeholders, including sex workers, activists, religious leaders, and consumers, providing a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted issues at play. She challenges prevailing myths and misconceptions about pornography, highlighting the connections between the industry and broader societal concerns such as gender inequality, sexual freedom, and the role of technology. Ultimately, the book encourages a critical examination of the cultural and political forces shaping our understanding of sex and sexuality.
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Brad speaks with Dr. Kelsy Burke, a sociologist from the University of Nebraska, who discusses her new book The Pornography Wars: The Past, Present, and Future of America's Obscene Obsession.
Burke spent the last five years researching and interviewing internet pornography's opponents and its sympathizers. She does a deep dive into the long history of pornography in America and then turns her gaze on our present society to examine the ways this industry touches on the most intimate parts of American lives. She offers a complete understanding of the major players in the debates around porn's place in society: everyone from sex workers, activists, therapists, religious leaders, and consumers. In doing so, she addresses and debunks the myths that surround porn and porn usage while showing how everything from the way we teach children about sex to the legal protections for what can be published is tied up in the deeply complicated battles over pornography.