Navigating the Complex Meaning of Pornography When it comes to the legal definition of pornography, it has often been a hot topic of debate. To the novice, it may seem difficult to decipher the exact meaning, as it involves many factors and is best understood in context. In this article, we will offer guidelines to entering this complex world and explain what constitutes pornographic material in the eyes of the law. The Definition of Pornography In a legal sense, pornography can generally be classified as any material that is considered to be sexually explicit and intended to cause sexual arousal. This can include magazines, videos, literature, cartoons, and a whole host of other media. It’s important to note, however, that different jurisdictions may have different definitions, so the specifics of what constitutes pornography can vary from place to place. The Test for Obscenity Due to the sensitive nature of pornography, the U.S. Supreme Court has established a three-pronged test for determining whether material is obscene and therefore excluded from First Amendment protection. This test considers the material’s tendency to (1) appeal to a prurient interest, (2) depict or describe sexual conduct in a patently offensive way, and (3) have no serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value. If all three criteria are met, the material is considered obscene and prohibited from distribution. Modern Examples of Pornography In recent years, the term pornography has broadened to include a variety of media and activities, including online images, voyeurism, phone sex, and live web cam sex. Additionally, the emergence of social media has provided a platform for the more explicit sharing and viewing of sexual content amongst consenting adults. It’s worth noting, however, that while acts of voluntary sexual expression are usually legal, certain boundaries should always be observed in order to prevent potential legal consequences. The Bottom Line Ultimately, pornography is a highly nuanced legal concept that can be difficult to navigate. While the definition of the term will vary depending on the context, there are certain tests and guidelines that can be used to assess material’s suitability for distribution. With this in mind, it’s important for businesses to understand the legal parameters of pornography and to exercise caution when sharing or viewing such material.