Abstract

Anti-porn feminism is back. Countering the ongoing ‘pornification’ of Western culture and society, with lads’ mags on the middle shelf and lap-dancing clubs in residential areas, anti-porn movements are re-emerging among a new generation of feminist activists worldwide. This essential new guide to the problems with porn starts with a history of modern pro and anti political stances before examining the ways in which the new arguments and campaigns around pornography are articulated, deployed and received. Drawing on original ethnographic research, it provides an in-depth analysis of the groups campaigning against the pornography industry today, as well as some eye-opening facts about the damage porn can do to women and society as a whole. This unique and inspiring book explains the powerful comeback of anti-porn feminism, and it controversially challenges liberal perspectives and the mainstreaming of a porn culture that threatens to change the very nature of our intimate relationships.
Julia Long has a professional background in gender-equality policy, education, and HIV prevention and support, and she currently works for an organisation combating violence against women.
'This book is a very important and badly needed antidote to the celebratory literature on pornography within academe and even in gender studies. It shows that for women at work, in their relationships, in public space, pornography is not just "representation" but has hugely destructive effects. It shows that women's outrage at the vilification of women in pornography has been at the epicentre of both 70s feminism and the new wave of feminism that is now building. It gives fascinating insights into the motivations of the brave and passionate young women now challenging this harmful practice, and how activism against pornography can be effective. The style is eloquent and clear and the book is a pleasure to read. Sheila Jeffreys, professor, School of Social and Political Studies, University of Melbourne 'Those of us who understand that pornography is women hating and degrading of human sexuality, but are lucky enough to see little of it, need this book. It describes clearly how society has become more pornified and pornography more violent. And depressingly how the pornography industry has become globalised. But it also describes a new wave of activism of women against pornography which has to be part of our struggle to build a more decent and dignified way of life for all of us.' Clare Short 'At last a book that tells the truth about the radical feminist fight against the misogynist porn industry, and the bravery of women everywhere who organize against these predatory capitalists. Julia Long has written a book that not only eloquently speaks to the past, but importantly, paves the way for a radical future where the sexual dehumanization of women is no longer normalized, celebrated, or legitimized. This book is a must for every person who is fed up with the objectification of women's bodies, and wants to take back our culture from the pornographers.' Gail Dines, professor, Wheelock College, Boston, author of Pornland: How Porn Has Hijacked Our Sexuality, and founding member of Stop Porn Culture! 'In this lucid and engaging account, Long gives the feminist anti-pornography movement the respect it deserves, putting it in a broader historical, philosophical, and social context, and avoiding common smears and oversimplifications. Perhaps most importantly, she gives grassroots activists a voice, making clear that in feminist anti-porn politics, alongside the anger and pain engendered by pornographic violence, there is ample room for sisterhood, creativity, and joy.' Rebecca Whisnant, associate professor of philosophy, University of Dayton, author of Not for Sale