pornography

Sex work, part of the online gig economy, is a lifeline for marginalized workers

More people are getting involved in more types of sex work, especially with the help of the internet, despite criminalization of their occupations and activist opposition, some of which threatens people’s lives. My research interviewing a wide range of sex workers finds that more people are involved in the industry, including marginalized people who are finding it a literal lifeline in tough economic times.

The internet has diversified forms of sex work, aided in the industry’s growth and interconnected previously unconnected types of sex work. Demand for amateur, non-studio-based porn has grown, expanding online pornographic industries like camming, in which performers interact with viewers. Online sex workers post content on specialized hosting sites. Other websites connect phone sex workers with new customers. Continue reading →

'I was dumped for watching porn, but I refuse to feel guilty about it'

Introduced to porn by a previous partner, *Kristy is completely confident in her ongoing recreational use of porn (ethical of course). So, there was nothing more confusing than when her new partner chose to end their relationship because she watched it. Continue reading →

Playgirl is back

Just over ten years since its final print issue Playgirl magazine has come back to life, with a renewed focus on the original, feminist slant that defined it in the 1970s and 80s. The first new issue of the magazine, which will now come out once every year, is helmed by a mostly female editorial team, and includes stories that cover everything from mental health, female activists, the patriarchy and parenting to female friendship and BDSM. Continue reading →

The positive impacts frequently watching porn can have on your sex life

People sure seem to have a lot of ~opinions~ on porn, and especially when it involves women watching porn. They often make assumptions about the kinds of porn women will want to watch, and due to ye olde sexism, women are often judged more harshly for watching adult films than men are. You've likely heard the argument that watching pornography can negatively impact your sexual experiences in real life. Which, sure, it can, with many psychologists and experts linking some people's reliance on adult films to erectile issues, for example. But, a new study has found that for women, watching porn could actually have some pretty positive effects. Continue reading →