Prostitution

While there is a powerful and negative stigma around the institution of prostitution, I believe that it does exist for a reason. I know that it's a gross thing to talk about, and I know that you might not agree with it, I know I certainly don't, but that doesn't change the fact that the factor of supply and demand is well known to be the factor that runs most institutions. There is a demand for the physical release of stress, and prostitution is the respective supply for it. I also recognize that the reason there is a demand for sex is that not everyone has the ability to find a willing and enthusiastic partner without some sort of monetary compensation. While I would never partake in such an institution myself, and quite frankly do find it repulsive, I will say that I do understand it. From my view point, prostitution is an unsightly concept that isn't only demeaning to women, but it is demeaning to the individuals that pay for it. By partaking in this business, they allocate sex, something that should be a beautiful bonding experience, to be nothing more than a commodity to be bought and sold. This is particularly disappointing to me. Everyone needs to make a living, I'm not arguing that, but still it's difficult not to pass judgement on those who make ends meet in this manner. However, I don't think it's as sleazy of an institution as some would make it out to be. After all, it's a thriving, profitable, and regulated industry in nations such as the Netherlands. And the fact that it's regulated there has done much to curb the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, which I would have to say is a good thing. I should say again, that still doesn't make it any less morally repugnant. It's possible to disapprove of something, but at the same time recognize that it's not going to go away because it is based in the most basic human needs that some people can't fulfill in any other way. That essentially sums up what I think of prostitution. I'm honestly not sure if it would be a good thing or not to legalize it here in the united states. We're a very different country from the Netherlands, so it's hard to say for sure what effect it would have on our particular society. Would it lead us down a path of moral depravity? Would it turn us into an amoral society, or would it have a minimal impact while at the same time contribute to our economy? I honestly can't say. Again, prostitution is something that I would never approve of, but do understand what would bring some people to take part in the institution.