Fred, who decided what decent or legitimate work is? Prostitutes have played an important role in society throughout history, but somewhere along the way that role has been degraded into something simple. One reason is that they interact closely with many people and are therefore more exposed to infections and illness. But if they were treated with the same respect, protection and health standards as nurses and others who work closely with people, much of that risk could be reduced. In many places, stigma and criminalisation create some of the greatest dangers for prostitutes, rather than the profession itself. Even in very religious societies, prostitution has still existed in one form or another. The problem is not sex itself, but abuse, coercion and power. We have seen that in churches as well, where priests have abused women, men and children because they had power and little accountability. Abuse grows where someone has power over another person and there is weak accountability. Condemn the abuse, not automatically the act itself. Society would probably be better off with legal, controlled places where workers are protected, health standards are enforced, alcohol and drugs are kept under control, and both sides are safer. Thailand already shows part of this through the widespread massage culture, where men can get relief without everything being pushed underground. I’m painting with a big brush here, but you see where I’m heading.
