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Interestingly, the historic case of 1868 in England that…

“Interestingly, the historic case of 1868 in England that first defined obscenity-known among lawyers as the Hicklin decision- evolved out of the prosecution of a pamphlet describing how priests were often so sexually aroused while hearing women’s confessions that they sometimes masturbated and…” quote by Gay Talese
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““Interestingly, the historic case of 1868 in England that first defined obscenity-known among lawyers as the Hicklin decision- evolved out of the prosecution of a pamphlet describing how priests were often so sexually aroused while hearing women’s confessions that they sometimes masturbated and even copulated with their repentant subjects in the confessional.””

Gay Talese

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The case defined obscenity based on potential impact on vulnerable audiences, shaping modern free‑speech law.

In simple terms: Obscenity judged by effect on the most susceptible.

Key Takeaway

Consider audience impact when creating content.

Themes

law ethics free speech

Mood

critical historical

Type

analysis educational

When to use this quote

  • publishing
  • advertising
  • artistic expression
  • online platforms

Key Concepts

obscenity standards public morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How would this case be judged today?
  • What defines “harmful” content now?
A Different Perspective

Modern standards differ from 19th‑century views.

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