Porn and Feminism, Part 2
Previously we talked about pornography and its social impact, especially as seen from a feminist point of view. The conclusion? Pornography itself does not necessarily encourage or represent misogynistic or anti-social attitudes, but can negatively effect our sexual expression by making us accustomed to virtual and immediate pleasure over real life intimacy.
The sex-positive feminist movement that emerged in the 80s is opposed to the feminist anti-pornography discourse of activists like Catherine MacKinnon and instead promotes a more open sexuality. Rather than prohibiting pornography, they want to foster the development of sexuality free of patriarchal restrictions. The goal is absolute sexual freedom without legal and social limitations imposed on our sexual tastes, and the pursuit of real pleasure both female and male. Their manifesto reclaims women’s sexuality and their freedom to consume pornography and express their sexuality without that having to fear being seen as anti-feminist puppets of a patriarchal system.
One of the most famous porn actresses, Annabel Chong, whose memorable gang bang film launched her porn-stardom in a way, shared the vision of sex-positive feminists. For her, having sex with many men at once was a way to reclaim her sexual freedom as a woman. In this way, the actress wanted to draw attention to the double-standard which deemed sexually liberated woman “easy “, while men received pats on the back for their voracious sexual appetite and success.
While much of the pornography circulating on the Internet offers a very sexist view of women, this does not mean that all pornography should be abolished as anti-feminist. In fact, last May year one of the more ironic prizes in the industry was awarded to the best feminist porn at the Feminist Porn Awards in Toronto, Canada. Three important selection criteria for the competition were: 1) The porn film had to be created by women at management level, production and script 2) Films had to show one hundred percent female pleasure, and finally 3) Films had to offer a fresh and innovative representation of sex which broke free from the typical stereotypes of pornography.
Why not take a spin in one of the capitals of European porn by renting apartments in Budapest and looking for alternative erotic films?
September 29th, 2010 at 9:44 am
Porn and Feminism, Part 2 http://t.co/2BlwaPR annabel chong rocks
September 29th, 2010 at 9:46 am
Porn and Feminism, Part 2 http://t.co/aAuIL8J annabel chong rawx