4 ms·

The very unparallel difference between prostitution and labor though (pre-modern-technology) is that the former often left a permanent, enduring, and very perso

The very unparallel difference between prostitution and labor though (pre-modern-technology) is that the former often left a permanent, enduring, and very personal reminder of the activity ... a child. That's the genesis of almost all differences in treatment of prostitution vs labor, the one almost all commentators here have not addressed. With the "Brave New World" upon us in increasing degrees, that may change. EDIT: Brave New World

DoreenMichele 5y ago
Disease control is possibly a more compelling argument. I've seen some articles that suggest some prostitutes primarily provide oral gratification which does not lead to pregnancy. Your argument also presumes that all sex work is heterosexual which is another problem with it. Human sexual morality is complex. Disease control and the consequence of pregnancy are large parts of the reason sex is such a loaded issue. This is a poor argument for suggesting people should not be allowed to provide sexual services for cash if they so choose.
ranguna 5y ago
100% agree. That might look like only one difference, but it makes all the difference here. Aside from that, you also have the personal aspect of the two. When you leave labor related work and go to your house, you don't generally do labor on your own or with other people you share an interest (or a deep emotion with) with, you might do it as an hobby, but that's pretty much it. Sex on the other hand, is different. You can still do it without any emotions attached, but you also do it when you are deeply involved with other people. It's one of the basic ways to share deep affection with other people, which can be hindered if you do it professionally. Of course this depends on the person, or more generally, the society. Maybe that's probably why prostitution is legal in some countries.

4 ms·

The very unparallel difference between prostitution and labor though (pre-modern-technology) is that the former often left a permanent, enduring, and very perso

by nwatson 5y ago

DoreenMichele 5y ago
Disease control is possibly a more compelling argument. I've seen some articles that suggest some prostitutes primarily provide oral gratification which does not lead to pregnancy. Your argument also presumes that all sex work is heterosexual which is another problem with it. Human sexual morality is complex. Disease control and the consequence of pregnancy are large parts of the reason sex is such a loaded issue. This is a poor argument for suggesting people should not be allowed to provide sexual services for cash if they so choose.
ranguna 5y ago
100% agree. That might look like only one difference, but it makes all the difference here. Aside from that, you also have the personal aspect of the two. When you leave labor related work and go to your house, you don't generally do labor on your own or with other people you share an interest (or a deep emotion with) with, you might do it as an hobby, but that's pretty much it. Sex on the other hand, is different. You can still do it without any emotions attached, but you also do it when you are deeply involved with other people. It's one of the basic ways to share deep affection with other people, which can be hindered if you do it professionally. Of course this depends on the person, or more generally, the society. Maybe that's probably why prostitution is legal in some countries.