CULTURE | TECHNOLOGY

Let’s Talk About Pornography

From Pompeii to Pornhub: A look at eroticism in the digital age

Photo by Darren Lawrence on Unsplash

Maybe it’s no secret by now that internet pornography is a part of our culture. Judging by how little the topic makes its way into standard discourse, though, maybe it still is. And if you’re not yet acquainted with this digital realm of erotica, allow me to be the bearer of strange news.

While state laws skirt around the issues of psychological damage versus privacy rights, statistics regarding internet porn usage continue to skyrocket. Whether you fall into the “hands off my hands” camp or the camp that rightfully is worried about shattered marriages, erectile dysfunction and teens with intensified internet addiction, there’s clearly much to be discussed that isn’t being discussed.

For every risqué fantasy that’s ever tiptoed across your mind, there’s a video. Probably a thousand. And the overabundance is weighing on society in ways we’re only just beginning to understand.

For every perverse daydream you’ve ever had, there are at least a hundred pornos. Yep — even that one you wouldn’t dare to confide in your closest friend.

There’s college porn and senior porn. There’s cartoon porn and there’s role playing porn. There’s vintage…