Sociological Perspectives on Pornography Definition: The depiction of sexual behavior on such a way as to excite the viewer sexually.

As a Social Problem Openness of its distribution Tendency to become concentrated in an area so that it affects whole neighborhoods Exploitation of children in the production of pornographic materials.

Censorship Definition: Suppression of pornographic material Those for Censorship Argue: Pornography too widespread Difficult to escape (internet; movies) Habitual exposure is harmful

Against Censorship Damaging to artistic and literary efforts Vagueness of legal definition gives subjective power to judges Reading/viewing is private and does not harm society If legal, educated people will become bored with it and turn to mere worthwhile entertainment.

Social Policy Roth vs U.S. (1975) In Detroit (1970) Application of “community standards” Allowed in zoned districts In Detroit (1970) Adult establishments had to be at least ½ mile apart