Reference no: EM133808914

Case: Proponents of legalized prostitution argue that legalization will increase the health and safety of sex workers and their clients. For example, if legalized, the profession as a whole could potentially be regulated, with requirements such as routine STI tests for workers and mandatory condom use (just like in the Nevada brothels). Moreover, by pulling the behavior out of the shadows, it may reduce the risk of sexual assault and violence against sex workers. Another common argument in favor of legalization is that it will significantly reduce taxpayer spending (arrests and prosecutions are not cheap), while allowing the possibility of taxing the sale of sex. Thus, it could represent a big influx of money to the government. Yet another argument to consider is that we do not seem to have a problem with the fact that porn stars are paid for sexual services. These folks are not routinely arrested or socially vilified for their work in the way that prostitutes are-to the contrary, there is a double standard in that porn stars are often celebrated instead. On the other hand, those who argue against legalizing prostitution frequently cite concerns that the sale of sex is morally wrong. In addition, it is sometimes argued that legalized prostitution could encourage more people to enter the profession, not to mention potentially increase rates of STIs. Where do you stand on this issue? What other arguments for or against legalized prostitution can you think of? Get Help Now!

Speaking of sex work and the law, it is important to note that there are actually four different models for this that exist in the modern world: (1) completely illegal, (2) legal and government-regulated, (3) partial decriminalization, and (4) full decriminalization. In the illegal model, any offer, exchange, or agreement to trade sexual services for money is considered prostitution, regardless of whether a service is actually provided. In this case, the sex worker, the client, and anyone who facilitates the sale can be prosecuted for criminal activity. In contrast, in the legal and regulated model, the government determines which activities are legal and establishes parameters for selling sex, which may require formally registering as a sex worker and paying taxes on earnings; sex work that takes place outside of these parameters is illegal. Next, partial decriminalization (sometimes referred to as the "Nordic model") means that selling sex is not a crime, but buying it is. The penalties are shifted entirely to the buyers in order to deter would-be purchasers, while also protecting workers. Finally, full decriminalization involves removing criminal penalties for sex workers and buyers alike. This is different from the legal approach mentioned above in that it does not set parameters or regulations for sex work; rather, it creates an open market. What do you see as the advantages and disadvantages of each model? Which model do you prefer and why?