Going Beyond the Taboo: A Look at Paid Sex

As society progresses, so too does its taboo topics—including paid sex. To many, such a topic may be abhorrent, and yet it is one that will remain so long as it remains a problem that must be discussed. Paid sex places us in a morally and ethically complex space, and to truly reflect upon it, we must go beyond the taboo to get to the full story.

Money Changes Everything
Pursuing money and pleasure, two of life's basest and simplest motivators, are common reasons given for why prostitution exists. Surprisingly, it’s also not a purely male-led industry. Women too do use sex as a commodity, to pay the bills, fulfill desires and gain financial security. In such a context, money may well bring about physical pleasure, but often it comes at a cost. It may dehumanize the sex worker, leading to a slew of health, mental and economic issues.

The Power of Perception
The perception of prostitution is often negative and judgmental, which further increases the taboo surrounding it. Many believe that prostitution should be illegal, worrying about the worker's safety, security and mental wellbeing. As a result, the industry doesn't always attract the most informed opinions. It also exacerbates the stigma at the heart of the profession, meaning that brothels and clients alike may find it harder to progress without significant societal upheaval.

The Dehumanisation of the Sex Worker
In a society where sexual objectification is widespread, it's easy to forget that paid sex exists outside of a purely physical context. For some, it's a powerful way for them to take control of their sexuality and regain autonomy. But it's also hard to ignore the fact that the industry is more often than not exploitative and damaging.  horny whores  are pervasive and can often lead to a feeling of dehumanization within the sex worker, as they’re denied the right to be seen as a real person with their own choices and feelings.

A Way Out
The idea of a 'happy ending,' an optimal solution to the problem of an immoral service, is near impossible. Even in countries that legalize prostitution, it often remains on the fringes of society, with inadequate governmental or social support. As such, in most countries, there seem to be few viable solutions. The best that can be done is to ensure that objectification is reduced and that sex workers are, above all, seen as people who deserve better. Counselling services and government-organised clinics can provide the necessary information and support to those looking to leave their sex work behind, and thus provide an exit route from such a taboo industry.  

A New Narrative
Although sex work still remains a notable taboo, thoughtful and informed conversations about the industry are becoming more commonplace. Before this can be achieved though, it is necessary to change our perception of paid sex and of sex workers themselves. Instead of merely being a moral dilemma, prostitution presents an opportunity to break through the well-worn connotations and enable us to view it as simply as a human service. This is an outlook we should keep in the forefront of our minds as we continue to overcome the taboo of paid sex.