Assuming Quote by Robert Jensen
“People routinely assume that pornography is such a difficult and divisive issue because it's about sex. In fact, this culture struggles unsuccessfully with pornography because it is about men's cruelty to women, and the pleasure men sometimes take in that cruelty. And that is much more difficult for people-- men and women-- to face.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Pornography and the Culture of Sexual Violence, Robert Jensen, 2010
The quote argues that the real problem with pornography is not sex itself but the cruelty toward women it depicts, making it hard for both genders to confront.
In simple terms: Pornography's cruelty to women is the core issue, not sex.
Recognize and address the underlying cruelty.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- media analysis
- gender studies
- activism
- education
- policy making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does society differentiate harmful pornography from consensual erotic expression?
- What steps can reduce cruelty in media portrayals?
It may overlook consensual adult content that doesn't involve cruelty.