Exploring the impact of technology on sex, from early adopters of the Internet to changing consumption of pornography and online dating. Discussing concerns of negative effects and the future of Internet-mediated sex. Delving into insights from Pornhub data analysis, evolution of adult entertainment, AI boyfriend interactions, VR porn, sex robots, and online pornography regulation.
Balancing privacy rights with data protection in internet intimacy poses legal challenges and compliance complexities.
Innovative technologies like VR porn and AI-driven sexual interactions redefine modern intimacy, challenging traditional concepts and highlighting the need for enhanced online safety measures.
Deep dives
Information Privacy and Gender Equality Concerns in the Digital World
Data privacy, especially regarding intimate information exchanged over the internet, poses challenges in categorization, where sensitive data like health records and interactions with connected sex toys may not fit traditional legal definitions. Fragmented regulations across countries intensify compliance complexities, affecting products crossing borders, as seen in the US-UK scenario. Balancing individual privacy rights and manufacturer data protection specifications becomes crucial.
Technological Advancements Impacting the Adult Content Industry
The adult entertainment sector showcases early incorporation of innovative technologies, like virtual reality (VR) porn witnessing rapid growth and user engagement. Integration of haptic-enabled sex toys in VR experiences enriches physical and emotional immersion, enhancing participant engagement. Developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and companion robots offer personalized sexual interactions, challenging established concepts of monogamy and intimacy.
Risks and Security Aspects in Online Sexual Encounters
The digital landscape introduces potential risks like cyber flashing and sextortion, where scammers leverage phishing emails and threats for blackmail, exploiting individuals seeking intimacy via technology. Ensuring data security in connected sex toys, managing age verification for online adult content, and combating cybercrimes demanding ransom or leveraging deep fake technologies underscore the critical imperative for enhanced online safety measures and regulations.
Navigating Boundaries of Consent, Safety, and Transformation in Online Connections
Online interactions redefine modern intimate landscapes with dating apps, AI companions, and virtual experiences shaping new forms of relationships and engagements. While technology facilitates connectivity, it also raises ethical considerations on consent nuances, privacy breaches, and the evolution of sexual encounters between flesh and digital realms. Reflecting on how digital advancements influence sexual practices underscores the need for continuous legal adaptation and informed user practices.
The relationship between intimacy and technology is dynamic and transformative. Adult entertainment providers were early adopters of the Internet and directly influenced its development. Meanwhile, digital communication has changed our consumption of pornography, how we date, and how we seek pleasure.
There is increasing concern that Internet-mediated sex is having a negative impact on humans. What’s the evidence for that? And what does the future hold?
This lecture was recorded by Dr Victoria Baines on 13th February 2024 at Barnard's Inn Hall, London
The transcript and downloadable versions of the lecture are available from the Gresham College website: https://www.gresham.ac.uk/watch-now/internet-sex
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