Gender Quote by Sheila Jeffreys
““The effect of legalised prostitution on women outside prostitution is to lower the status of all women. Women are recognised by the state in this system as the appropriate objects of male penetration with no consideration for their personhood or pleasure. This teaches that the penetration and use of an unwilling woman is ‘sex’, an idea that lies at the root of sexual violence against women in general. There is no chance of developing a sexuality of equality in which women’s pleasure, right to say no, and bodily integrity are respected whilst the violence of prostitution is allowed to continue with state support for men’s behaviour.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “The Industrial Vagina: The Political Economy of the Global Sex Trade” by Sheila Jeffreys, 2008
Legalizing prostitution reduces all women’s status by framing them as objects for male use, reinforcing violence and preventing gender‑equal sexuality.
In simple terms: Legal prostitution harms all women’s status.
Key Takeaway
Advocate for gender‑equal sexual rights.
Themes
gender equality
sex work
state policy
bodily autonomy
Mood
serious
advocative
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- education campaigns
- support services
- legal advocacy
Key Concepts
feminist theory
human rights
social justice
Questions to Reflect On
- Can regulation coexist with equality goals?
- What alternatives protect workers effectively?
A Different Perspective
Opponents argue regulation can protect workers and reduce harm.
