[plug] PORNO and our internet

[Mike Holland]

On Sun, 15 Aug 1999, John Menzies wrote:

> industry.  Sure it reflects demand and it is profitable but I bet that the 
> public execution of Christians and lion feeding would also be popular if 
> the population was suitably educated.

John, please read that again. What point is that 'logic' supposed to make?
"A is B, and C is B also. C is bad so ..."

> Participation in the industry is exploitative of the participants in 

It can be harmful to participants, but the shoe industry probably treats
its workers a lot worse. Does that make shoes bad?

> product - do not tell me that a drug addict high on speed  screwing his or 
> brains out is doing so with full consent.

I'd guess yes. You think they were talked into it after they took the
speed?

>  As for child porno which is obviously widespread on the net

   Is it??? Can you tell us where there is child porn on the net? I think  
its all a bit of a myth. Sure, paedophiles use e-mail to swap pictures,
but thats hardly relevant. And pictures of naked kiddies at the beach is
not pornography. 

> I oppose porno from a philosophical perspective as it sees the person and 
> their unique gifts as no more than a commodity to buy and exploit - I feel 

Then you no doubt abhor modelling, professional sport, professional
entertainers, ...  Or is there a difference you can explain?

> that it does not enhance the life of the viewer of give him a better 
> understanding of the world in which we live.

Your point? Is this grounds for censorship? Could be bad news for TV.

> That it is almost impossible to regulate this stuff over the medium is 
> another question - in  the fullness of time - technology will allow for the 
> censure of this material if that what society wishes.

Maybe, but its a double edged sword. I think censorship will become more
futile with increased censorship. It started with the printing press, and
made a huge jump with the Xerox machine. Countries like Russia have given
up and legalised them. China is still trying to filter the net.


Mike Holland <mike at golden.wattle.id.au>            Perth, Australia.
                          --==--
	Many are cold, but few are frozen.