Pros of Prostitution - Research Paper Example

The world human beings reside in is not perfect in any sense. It is like a complex web of miseries, atrocities, misdemeanors, and dilemmas, which are all combined with blessings, beauty, privileges and benefits. This way, it becomes an intricate collaboration or collage of various positives and negatives. Although it is bursting with issues of both environmental and social nature, but it is a fact that there are some problems that are believed to be evil, unethical, and disadvantageous for mankind, but in reality, pose no particular threat. Such an issue is the globally defamed and infamous profession of Prostitution. Prostitution can be simply described through the words of Paul Goldstein, who believed that “prostitution is a non-marital sexual service for material gain” (Flower 7). Prostitution is synonymized with stereotypical terms like slavery, whoring, and is considered a filthy profession. In no part of the world is it accepted as a profession. From a common man’s perspective, it becomes fairly difficult to adorn this specific choice of work with any sort of accolades or compliments, and almost impossible to gratify it with social and public acceptance. Taboo is the only term deemed feasible for describing this field of work, without paying attention to the fact that not only it is among the world’s most ancient professions, but also is practiced in every part of the world. Be it the reigning super power United States of America or an upcoming asian giant like India, the roots of prostitution are deeply embedded in their culture and society since ages. Even so, this profession remains an issue of heating debate, argument, denouncement, and degradation and its positive aspects are ignored almost unanimously. This paper is an attempt to analyze those salient productive attributes or the pros of prostitution from various angles and aspects. This paper will examine a brief historical evolution of this profession in the two different parts of the world America and India, and will research on the notable solutions that might help in changing the outlook of prostitution, and the false notion of sinfulness affiliated with it. Historical evolution of Prostitution: Prostitution’s roots can be traced back in the most primitive civilizations, and henceforth; it has been changing its form and norms with the evolution of society. (Thomson 2) The first traces of prostitutes were found in Babylonian times, I-e during 2400 BC, where it was practiced as a Sacred Task, and references about sacred prostitutes can be found in their scriptures Herodotus and Thucydides (Ringdal 44). In 1780BC, the Code of Hammurabi declared the rights of prostitutes and their babies in great detail, and their code of conduct was mainly determined in the Code of Assura during 1075BC. Even in ancient times, the scope of prostitution was not restricted to women only, and in cultures of Sardinia and Phoenicia, where Canaan was a chiefly followed religious belief, male prostitutes were prominent and comparatively in inordinate numbers. During the 7th century, China came forth as the bulging acceptor of prostitutes, and Chinese philosopher Kuang Chung established the world’s first brothel called Bordellos. (Ringdal 119) This profession was recognized legally during 594BC, mainly in Greece, where Solon started the trend of state-owned brothels, and taxation system for prostitution. Greeks also systemized, and culturally synchronized this profession by categorizing services, imposing separate charges for every category, and devising training modules for hetaira or prostitutes. (Ringdal 55) The famous Greek prostitute and mistress of Athenian leader Perikles, Apasia, represented their brand-new generation who were trained, sophisticated, and immensely sought after in society. However, it was not a socially acceptable practice in most religious doctrines, and among ancient civilizations, Rome was the only place where it was considered a legitimate profession, but prostitutes were mainly slaves and their status in the society was precarious. In 7th century, after the advent of Islam, Prophet Mohammad declared this practice as a sin, and hence, prostitution was largely prohibited in Muslim nations and was practiced behind closed doors. During 438 AD, the Codex Theodosianus, from Byzantine King Theodosius, also prohibited it for Christians. (DeMello 303) During the middle ages, prostitution not only survived, but became deeply embedded in every social system all over the world although it was legally banned in Corpus Juris Civilis (534 AD) and in the decree of Recared by the king of Visigoths of Spain (601AD). (Ringdal 138) With the passage of time, the profession again gained acceptance, and a service that was punishable and was deemed a crime during the 12th century became institutionalized and strengthened its grounds first in Europe and later on in different parts of the world post fourteenth century. Nils Ringdal wrote “When the Great Council of Venice ratified a decree in 1358 that declared prostitution 'absolutely indispensable to the world,' this was a definite sign of the times." (139) Prostitution met yet another blow of denouncement and objection during the fifteenth century, firstly, by the launching of an ordinance in 1469 from the King of Castila Henry VI, which declared punishment of 100 lashes and banishment for life for the men involved in this business. Secondly, in1490, the fear of diseases and infections emerged, which was intensified by the moral objections from reformers like the Great Pox (syphilis) that gave rise to another reactionary against prostitution. However, prostitution did not cease to exist, but entered the modern era, I-e between 1500 and 1800, in a completely new, civilized, and modernized avatar. A trend of tolerance towards prostitution in England was instigated after Henry VIII declared prostitutes as abandoned and dejected persons. Prostitution survived various additional interruptions during 16th century pertaining to the ordinances from Charles IX (1560), Henry III (1588) and Pope Sixtus V (1586). However, from 17th century onwards, it was overwhelmingly accepted in Asia and profoundly in Japan’s Edo (Tokyo) region, where red-light areas were formally founded in 1617. The Geisha tradition that prevailed in Japan between 17th and 18th century is an astounding example of this new breed of prostitutes and is still cherished and remembered (Ringdal 220). Courtesans in Japan, Osaka, and Kyoto were known as Oiran. In South-Asia, (currently India, Bangladesh and Pakistan) during the Mughal era, prostitutes were called Tawaifs and were an essential part of every Mehfil (meeting or party). (Ringdal 286) Majority of Mughals were Muslims, but they did not deem it as an un-Islamic practice and housed Tawaifs in who performed the task of entertaining the guests or the kings and princes. During 18th and 19th centuries, the mannerisms of prostitution and the rules of the trade evolved tremendously, and the concept of contraceptives and protection originated. It flourished considerably in Colonial America during 1780s, and also in France, where prostitution was socially and legally condemned since 1560s, prostitutes gained an unofficial license by police in 1778 to practice in separate areas of the city. Napoleon Bonaparte regularized it further in 1810, and Local Government Act of 1851 validated this later. Prior to World War I, in civilized societies like England and America “prostitution was not regarded as an offense in Common Law, and came into conflict with the law only when it was so associated with "street soliciting” (Waterman 12). This profession was more comprehensively legalized, and coagulated in American, Britain and Asian societies after World War II. The first ever World Whore Congress was held in Amsterdam in 1985 and since then on, prostitution has been termed as although socially and morally questionable but an uncontainable and uncontrollable option in professional approaches. It can be concluded that a laissez-faire approach has been adopted in this regard by prominent governments and regions all around the world. Pros of Prostitution: It is a common assumption that prostitution is a morally challengeable and ethically non-productive practice, but it is also true that unlike any other issue prevailing in the world currently, it is the only one that inhabits a physically beneficial, politically constructive, and socially positive side. It is important to analyze the pros of prostitution from various aspects to determine whether it is helpful in a broader spectrum. Social benefits: Jim Fetzer proclaims that the most common criticism that prostitution is subjected to is regarding the immoral aspect of this act. Prostitution is greatly denounced as a profession due to the assumption that it spreads unethical approaches within the society, and thus, it is entitled as socially unacceptable behavior. However, the coin has always an opposite side, which in prostitution’s case happens to be the socially productive benefits attached with it. Firstly, it prevents people from committing the world’s most heinous crime, I-e rape. It is a reality and plaguing every corner of the world from advanced societies like America to culturally restricted ones like India. American society, although considered as the most well-educated and civilized, has experienced this social epidemic since very long. Jessie Smith writes, “even after slavery was abolished, African-American women were victims of gang rapes” (1141). Rape average in America is astonishingly high, and about 25000 women are raped every year. This situation can be curbed through legalizing willful prostitution and condemning the forced one. Kirby Cundiff states that “if prostitution were legalized in the United States, the rape rate would decrease by roughly 25%. (Keykarthi) The rape rate could be lowered if prostitution was more readily available." This is not just a hypothesized statement or an assumption, but a proven reality. Linda Rio Reichmann revealed that when legal brothels were abruptly shut down in Queensland during 1959, the rape average increased to 149% whereas all the other crimes conducted during that period, accumulated a ratio of 49% only (Keykarthi). Similarly, Joe Bindloss described that “India has a high incidence of domestic violence, rape and crimes against women” (48). Although Indian social stature is hugely respected for being extremely homogenous and religious, but the fact cannot be nullified that rape in comparison to America, is the most frequently conducted crime in this region (Mitta). Government statistics reveal that a rape is reported every 21 minutes and in comparison to the figures of 2011, a 9% increase was reported in 2012 with 24000 cases (Chamberlin). A recent incident that shook India, and the rest of the world was the rape of an innocent 23-year-old medical student Jyoti Pandey, who was brutally raped and assaulted by six men in a moving bus (Chamberlin). Due to the gruesomeness of the way it was conducted, it has been entitled as the worst case of sexual attack against a woman in Indian subcontinent till date. Such incidents happen because Indian society deems killing innocent female children, burning brides, molesting women, and imposing domestic abuse appropriate behavioral conducts, and strongly condemns prostitution. Kushwant Singh suggested that “a necessary step to prevent rape is to legalize prostitution provided the sex workers are adults and have not been forced into the trade. The more you try to put down prostitution, the higher will be the incidence of crime against innocent women" (Keykarthi). There is enough substance in his suggestion, and can definitely prove socially worthy. Moreover, prostitution is often regarded as a criminal/illegal activity and also as objectification of women instead of a profession. Melissa Grant propagates “for all of the “social ills” pinned on prostitution – crime, decaying property values, disease, violence, and a whole host of supposed moral failings – history shows us that none are inherent to the practice of selling sex" (Grant). This again gives strong evidence that prostitution should not be looked upon as a crime it can also be a feasible professional choice for those who possess a weak socio-economic position in society. This point brings forth another factor that is the main cause behind the regressive and downtrodden social status of societies like America and India. Socio-economic condition of a large segment of society in these regions is below the average poverty level. This happens because Indian population is increasing at an overwhelming proportion, and economic conditions of its inhabitants are decreasing with every passing year. Similarly, American society boasts of a multi-lingual, and multi-cultural backdrop, and mostly the ethnic differences cause discrimination between the whites, blacks and Hispanics, etc. subjecting the underprivileged sector to succumb to criminal and life-threatening actions. Jassey Smith revealed that “in the time of difficulty and financial need, African-American women would sell themselves in order to provide for their families; it was not called prostitution but 'treating'" (1141). Therefore, it can be concluded that accepting prostitution not only prevents the growing inclination of rape, curb various everyday criminal activities, but can provide an opportunity to earn for those who cannot make both ends meet. Changing of perception towards this profession will not only improve the living standards and status of prostitutes in society, but will help those involved in this business lead a much protective and respectable life. Governor Jesse Ventura clarified that “If it's legal, then the girls could have health checks, unions, benefits, anything any other worker gets, and it would be far better" (Molly). Politically positive outcomes of prostitution: Prostitution is the least bothered about profession in America and India from a political perspective. There is no legally recognized framework available for prostitutes, and neither is there any state-owned place for housing them. Legal rights are a far cry for them, and due to this attitude of governmental institutions, large proportions of prostitutes are suffering, frequently abused, and dominantly degraded in society. If properly evaluated, governments can benefit from legalizing prostitution through taxing it. In India, although prostitution is legal but is never given due respect, and the system lacks a properly organized infrastructure and legal protection for this profession. According to a report from Reuters, Indian government thrashed the petition filed by around 65,000 prostitutes affiliated with the Bengalian Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee (DMSC), which stated their willingness to pay tax to government (Reuters). The reason behind this step was to seek government’s help in return for eliminating the growing injustices against sex workers in India, and to prevent unnecessary monetary demands of police and molestation by pimps. The rejection displays the approach of government with regard to prostitution. This, however, can be adopted for providing protection and security to sex-workers, but can improve economic conditions of the country. Samarak Swain writes, “today prostitution is a part of underground economy; legalization will help government monitor the flow of rupees in the industry. Government also can earn revenues by taxing brothels like Germany and Australia." (227) The money received from taxes can be used for constructing proper infrastructure for housing prostitutes, or to improve the conditions of the country. Criminalization can also be curbed through safeguarding it politically. It is difficult to evaluate the exact number of sex-workers in America as per the reports from National Task Force on Prostitution, and it is vaguely estimated to be involving around 1million Americans and 1% women. (Walker-Rodriguez and Hill) This uncertainty of statistics is caused by the ignorance that prevails within the governmental sector against prostitution, which in-turn paves the way for various crude and disturbing criminal activities such as human sex trafficking. FBI report declared that most of the girls abducted for this purpose are from South America and “an estimated 293,000 American youths currently are at risk of becoming victims of commercial sexual exploitation” (Walker-Rodriguez, and Hill). They contemplate that mostly girls who are unemployed, without a family, or in poor economic condition are used for human trafficking in USA. On the other hand, India is also a central location for running this business. Sarkar informs that “India is a source, transit, and destination country, receiving women and children from Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka” (34). Formulating laws and bills have been a continuous strategy from the governments to control the increasing intensity of human sex trafficking, but it cannot protect victimization of innocent people from falling into the traps of criminal unless government owns them. The network is very deep-rooted, and organized due to which gang leaders like Corey Davis successfully exploited females of at least three stares in USA, and seemingly ordinary places like the house in Plainfield, New Jersey is being easily used for this purpose (Walker-Rodriguez and Hill). Prostitution does not violate constitutional rights of both the client and service provider; even so, it is still illegal in the 49 states of USA. Dennis Hof, who owns Moonlight Bunny Ranch brothel in Nevada, proclaims that prostitution is a profession that can do economic wonders for America, which is going through a financial depression since 2008 (Kennedy). He states that “the prostitution industry in America is about an $18 billion business, and none of that money goes into the federal coffers or goes to pay taxes" (Kennedy). Hence, it can be estimated that government can receive around $6 million as federal income tax and additional $2 million as licensing fees if prostitution is accepted. Furthermore, the activities of criminal mafia groups, serial killers and even police harassment against sex-workers can be exposed if governments accept and provide respect, privilege, and rights to prostitutes. Moreover, regulating prostitution can also reduce the unemployment rate in India and America. In Indian society, which is a considerably male-dominated one, unpaid labor is constantly faced by women, and increasing unemployment, inflation, and industrial demands have forced them to adopt degrading and unhygienic tasks like garbage picking and waste salvaging (Dankelman 200). Moreover, the rate of unemployment in India, according to Kelly Services report is expected to increase to 9.4% in 2013 from 9.3% average of 2012 (Tejaswi). Hence, unemployment does exist in progressive societies as well, and mostly is experienced by individuals who are not adequately educated to meet the demands of industrial/corporate sector, or are a victim of gender/ethnicity based inequality. Such people adopt methods like drug addiction, suicidal attempts, and become an easy target of physical molestation. In America, according to a 2007 report of Reuters, each woman working in this industry can earn at least $484 per day, if only they are given the status of ‘self-employed tax payers” (Kennedy). Majority of their earnings are snatched from them in the current scenario because of the non-existent state ownership. Thus, accepting prostitution entails significant political benefits, like valuable monetary turnouts that boost economy, minimizing globally affecting crimes like human sex trafficking, curbing unemployment, and demotion of profession-based parity in society. Physical or health related pros: This fact is seldom valued that sexual drive is a naturally-occurring phenomenon, and prostitution can be looked upon as the doorway towards satisfying this urge, especially for those who are not bonded by any socially and religiously recognized agreement such as marriage. The process of urbanization has resulted in early puberty among males and females, and the promotion of late marriages. How are people then supposed to restrain their natural drive for physical pleasure? This is where prostitution plays a prominent role. There are various positive features of this service as far as human health is concerned. Firstly, it reduces the spread of alcoholism, drug addiction, and salient health-risking behaviors among youth and adults, which often becomes a feasible option when they control their natural sexual urges. Addictions to heroin, marijuana, severe tendencies of consuming alcohol are adopted at an early age most specifically among males to curb their bodily demands. Reportedly “many collegiate undergraduates in Miami choose to spend their weekends consuming large amounts of alcohol” (Hart). India has the largest fatality ratio of young adults, teenagers, and students in this regard. The death of Sneha Upadhyaya, an eighteen year old student from Padavinangadi, Mangalore, is a fairly recent example of how drug abuse can propel deadly diseases (Express News Service). Prostitution, however, does not cause any significant malfunctioning of body organs, and is psychologically beneficial as well. Suppressing natural desires infest more critically vindictive outcomes than prostitution. Moreover, depression can easily be cured by providing healing through physical connection. This was proven in the case of disabled Berkley's resident Mark O'Brien, who had polio since the age of six and had no choice but to remain sexually inactive and a virgin until his mid-thirties (O’Brien 2). He suffered from depression and hired a sex-surrogate on the advice of his therapist Sondra. Mark stated later in his article that the experience of intimacy acted like a therapy for him, and he felt better every day (O’Brien 6). Sexual coercion generates numerous social and psychological evils one of which happens to be exploitation of family members, and this practice is very common in USA and India. Recently, Akashitora, an activist and founder of the NGO Prithibi from Assam, revealed that “during my project, I interacted with victims, who were abused sexually by their brothers and foster fathers" (Das). Similarly, child molestation for satisfying sexual urges is also not uncommon in these regions. Larry Siegel pointed out that the disadvantages linked with this kind of sexual violence are far more severe, diverse and devastating than the ones caused by prostitution (69). It can easily damage a victim’s cognitive development, sabotage their reproductive ability, ignite social isolation and compel suicidal proclivity (Siegel 69). Studies reveal that human health is affected most due to casual sexual encounters. It gives birth to chronic diseases like Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), AIDS, Genital Ulcers, Herpes and Warts, and various sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STDs/STIs). Reports reveal that the first ever case of AIDS was identified in 1981 in America, mainly among homosexuals, and in India, around 6 million people were diagnosed with AIDS during 1983-93 (Buckley and Gluckman 6). Furthermore, the largest number of HIV infections in South Asian region occurs in India (Buckley and Gluckman 6). A person’s vulnerability to such life-threatening syndromes is much lesser with prostitutes because they need to take protective measures and mandatory precautions to avoid pregnancy, and diseases. World Bank report suggested that “prohibiting and punishing commercial sex is unlikely to be an effective approach to reduce HIV transmission” (121). Similarly, it is also a proven fact that sexual promiscuity does not make prostitutes vectors for transmitting HIV or AIDS in heterosexual community. It is estimated that if prostitution is legalized in America, it can stimulate “mental, physical and monetary well-being of many American citizens” (Hart). Conclusion and Analysis: Prostitution is an undeniable reality of present times. No matter how hard governments try to suppress it, the fact remains that this service is deeply embedded within every social structure. That is due to the simple reason that sex is the most basic human need, and cannot be restrained by any means or measures. On the other hand, curbing it and not recognizing its prevalence only aggravates the socio-economic, physical, psychological, political, and economic conditions within a country. Another fact is that underground and illegal provision of this service creates hordes of other problems of diverse nature, and encourages gangs and mafias involved in heinous acts like human sex trafficking, and drug smuggling to flourish and prosper. However, if a positive approach is applied, then it comes forth that prostitution is neither an immoral act, nor is it socially or physically destructive. Oppressive reactions from governments and society compel different complications otherwise the profession itself is completely harmless from an individual’s perspective. A detailed analysis of the pros of prostitution helps in deriving the conclusion that it is in no way an alarming activity. In today’s scenario, inflation is more like a barrier between people and happiness. Mostly, people cannot afford a high-paying job, which makes it impossible for them to settle down and marry early on. Furthermore, in societies like India where social discrimination and the socio-economic gap is so wide and common, condemning people who are involved in this profession is in itself an immoral attitude. Rape is an act that is much more degrading and dreadful for the person who becomes the victim and is also widely prevailing in advanced and under-developed societies alike. This also creates criminals in the form of rapists, and poses greater threats to the well-being of innocent people in comparison to prostitution. Lastly, it is also an undeniable point that governments, social organizations, and even influential individuals, which when combined together make a hefty section of society, cannot possibly provide economic and emotional support for every single family on a one-to-one basis. This is why if prostitution cannot be replaced by better options for living in a scenario when prices are consistently rising and versatile survival tactics are becoming scarce, then it should not be complained about either. Live and let live should be the approach in this context and governments must take the matter seriously and give prostitutes (regardless of their gender) their due human, legal, medial, social and constitutional rights. Works Cited Bindloss, Joe. Northeast India. 2nd. Lonely Planet, 2009. 48-49. Print. Joe Bindloss has attempted to present a neutral approach towards Indian cultural preferences and salient deficiencies of its system. The abuse and oppression afflicted upon innocent people especially females in Indian society is mainly discussed. Buckley, Michael, and Stephen Gluckman. HIV Infection in Primary Care. Elsevier Health Sciences, 2002. 6-7. Print. This book is a compilation of various significant discoveries made in identifying HIV virus and AIDS. For the purpose of attaining knowledge about how the virus started and how much it is affecting people in America and India, critical information and data was retrieved from this book. Chamberlin, Gethin. "'If girls look sexy, boys will rape.' Is this what Indian men really believe?." The Observer. N.p., 24 Mar 2013. Web. 15 Apr 2013. . Gethin Chamberlin revealed in this shocking article for The Observer that Indian mentality towards committing rape has not changed a single bit in the last decade. The death of a medical student due to rape has stirred the governmental and judicial sectors, but little has been done to curb this atrocity so far. Dankelman, Irene. Gender and Climate Change: An Introduction. Routledge, 2012. 200. Print. This book provides in-depth knowledge about how climatic changes and economic conditions are causing early puberty and low rates in marriages. It also discusses the presence of discriminating behaviors against females mainly prostitutes in seemingly civilized societies. Das, Gaurav. "Abuse by relatives seldom reported." The Times Of India. N.p., 10 Jan 2013. Web. 15 Apr 2013. . Gaurav Das informs that India has a growing urge of raping and abusing blood relative in order to curb the physical desires. Since in India, prostitution is hugely denounced, there is no outlet left for people to satisfy their natural demands, and as a result females of the vicinity and home are used for this purpose. Demello, Margo. Faces around the World. ABC-CLIO, 2012. 303. Print. Margo DeMello is a lecturer of sociology, anthropology and cultural studies at Central New Mexico Community College. In the book Faces Around the World, she has described the changes in cultural perceptions and religious orientation regarding outwardly appearances. The changing roles and traits of prostitutes in various cultures are also discussed in detail. Express News Service. "18-year-old drug addict kills self in Mangalore." Indian Express 04 Februaru 2013, n. pag. Web. 16 Apr. 2013. . In an article from the new Indian Express, the story of an 18 year old girl Sneha has been reported who died due to drug, tobacco, and gutka addiction. In this shocking revelation, the Express New Service revealed that in Mangalore, the mafia of drug dealer and smugglers is very strong and innocent students are being served with such life-risking potions right under the nose of governmental authorities. Fetzer, Jim. "What About Jesse's Views on Prostitution?." THE TWIN-PORTS PEOPLE Feb 2000, 06. Print. Jim Fetzer’s article published in The Twin-Ports People is an argumentative approach on the common assumptions about prostitution. With reference to the interview from Governer Jesse, which was published in Play Boy magazine, Fetzer agrees with his views and proclaims that considering prostitution immoral is in itself an unethical approach. Flower, Ronald, B. The prostitution of women and girls. McFarland, 1998. 5-7. Print. Ronald Barri Flowers is an acclaimed writer of several books on prostitution and illegally underway sex-based slavery. A renowned novelist, criminologist, and crime writer, Barri defines the meaning and evolution of prostitution. His take on this issue takes an excruciating turn by the mid-half and painful realities about how such practices are being adopted in civilized societies of today are narrated. Grant, Melissa G. "When Prostitution Wasn't a Crime: The Fascinating History of Sex Work in America." AlterNet. N.p., 17 Feb 2013. Web. 15 Apr 2013. . Melissa Gira Grant is no new name in journalism world. She has written for reputed publications like the Guardian UK, the New York Observer, Slate and Jezbel. In this article, she described how prostitution originated and flourished in Colonial America. She also presents an analytical approach on the various dogmas and taboos attached with prostitution. Hart, Kyle. "Prostitution should be legal considering our constitutional rights." Daily Barometer 03 May 2012, n. pag. Print. Read More