<\/p>\n
by CAPP-USA<\/span><\/h5>\n <\/p>\n
\n![\"'Ethical'](\"https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/A-young-woman-stands-in-a-hallway-with-her-head-down.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
‘Ethical’ porn is a delusion. Pornography, in any form, is a grave sin and an assault on human dignity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
What is <\/span>\u2018<\/span>Ethical<\/span>\u2019 <\/span>Porn?<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n“Ethical porn” refers to pornography produced in a way that prioritizes the well-being, consent, and fair treatment of everyone involved in its creation. It aims to counter traditional pornography for its exploitative practices, lack of transparency, and potential harm to performers.<\/span><\/p>\n‘Ethical’ Porn is an Illusion<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nLabeling pornography “ethical” does not change its moral standing. While ensuring fair treatment and consent for actors is certainly better than exploitation, the core problem lies in the very nature of pornography itself, which is inherently immoral.<\/span><\/p>\nThe “scourge of pornography<\/strong>…can only be condemned as a continuing attack on the dignity of men and women.” (Pope Francis)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nYou can\u2019t improve working conditions, sign a contract, and agree that everyone involved wants it, and make it something other than a scourge! This is like saying \u2018we must treat our slaves with respect and dignity\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\nThe Church and Pornography<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nThe Catholic Church fundamentally opposes all forms of pornography, including what might be termed “ethical porn”<\/strong>. According to Catholic teaching, pornography\u2014regardless of how it is produced\u2014objectifies human beings and distorts the purpose of human sexuality.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Violates Inherent Dignity of the Human Person<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Every person is created in the image of God and possesses inherent dignity. Pornography reduces individuals to objects of sexual gratification, which is a violation of that dignity.<\/span><\/p>\n“Pornography is<\/strong> immoral<\/strong> and ultimately anti\u2013social precisely because it is opposed to the truth about the human person<\/strong>, made in the image and likeness of God.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n“Pornography…offends against chastity because it perverts the conjugal act, the intimate giving of spouses to each other. It does grave injury to the dignity of its participants (actors, vendors, the public), since each one becomes an object of base pleasure and illicit profit for others. It is a grave offense<\/strong>.” <\/span>(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nWhether or not pornography is made “ethically” does not change the fundamental problem that it commodifies human beings. You cannot make ethical what is inherently unethical.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nLearn More about Human Dignity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Distorts the True Meaning of Human Sexuality<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Sexual activity has a specific, proper context: marriage between a man and a woman. Pornography separates sexual expression from this love, mutual self-giving, and openness to the creation of life.<\/span><\/p>\nBoth ‘ethical’ and feminist porn are wildly perverted, since “By its very nature<\/strong>,\u00a0pornography denies\u00a0<\/i>the genuine meaning<\/strong> of\u00a0human sexuality<\/i>“. (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Impacts Relationships<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>The Church points out that pornography, including ethical porn, has negative consequences on society and individual relationships. It can:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Harm marriages by promoting unrealistic or unhealthy expectations of sex.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Encourage selfishness and the use of others as means to an end, rather than fostering genuine love and mutual respect.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Lead to addiction and damage a person\u2019s capacity for authentic intimacy.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n“By reducing the body to an instrument for the gratification of the senses<\/strong>, pornography frustrates authentic moral growth and undermines the development of mature and healthy relationships. It leads inexorably to the exploitation of individuals<\/em>“. (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n“By its very nature,\u00a0pornography denies\u00a0<\/i>the genuine meaning of\u00a0human sexuality<\/i>“. (Pope St. John Paul II)<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\nPornography Impacts Society<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>\u201cWe would be seriously deluding ourselves were we to think that a society where an abnormal consumption of internet sex is rampant among adults could be capable of effectively protecting minors\u201d. (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nIn\u00a0addition to widespread addiction, abuse, and violence due to the repeated consumption of pornography, studies have shown how the brain is rewired, leading to failed relationships, further isolation, and depression. (Enough is Enough)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nWithin the industry itself, drug use, poor mental health, abuse, violence, greed and suicide are rampant. \u201cFemale adult film performers have significantly worse mental health and higher rates of depression than other California women of similar ages.\u201d (National Center for Sexual Exploitation)<\/a>\u00a0(Causes of Mortality Among Female Sex Workers)<\/a> (Psychiatry Online)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nThe industry\u2019s connection to, and even propagation of sex trafficking<\/strong> and the exploitation of minors, is also undeniable. (Intersections between Pornography and Human Trafficking)<\/a> (Exodus Cry)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nCall to Purity and Chastity<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nThe Church calls us to practice chastity, which means expressing sexuality in ways that align with God\u2019s design. This requires rejecting pornography in all its forms and promoting purity of heart. <\/span><\/p>\nA<\/span>rmed with Catholic social teaching, we can build\u00a0a<\/strong> “civilization of love<\/strong>“! (Congregation for Catholic Education, Foot Note, 35)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nCall to Public Action<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>The Church calls us to<\/strong> “increase<\/strong> public concern<\/strong>” and “awareness of the need for decisive intervention by<\/strong> the<\/strong> authorities<\/strong> charged with the promotion of the common good.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 3)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nThe Church holds not only the creators and consumers of pornography responsible, but authorities as well. \u201cCivil authorities should prevent the production and distribution of pornographic materials.\u201d (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\u201cIt is a matter not only of protecting children \u2013 an urgent task of the authorities and of all of us \u2013 but also of declaring pornography as a threat to public health.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n“To destroy such structures and replace them with more authentic forms of living in community is a task which demands courage and patience.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nFamily Counters a Porn Culture<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nIt all starts with the family! “[A]s the primary cell of society the family must be the first champion<\/strong>\u00a0<\/i>of the battle against this evil.”<\/span><\/p>\nThe Bottom Line<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nWhile “ethical porn” aims to address exploitation within the \u2018adult entertainment\u2019 industry, the Catholic Church rejects the concept entirely, as all pornography is harmful, regardless of how it is produced.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Assaults Human Dignity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Addiction, and the Common Good<\/a><\/span>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/the-family\/” button_text=”Learn More about the Importance of the Family” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/articles\/” button_text=”Back to Articles” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Widget of Issues ” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_css_main_element=”width: 100% !important;” make_fullwidth=”on” global_module=”31023″ saved_tabs=”all” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_class=”three-principles” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_text_color=”#084369″ width=”100%” width_last_edited=”off|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|||” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: auto;||margin: 0 auto !important;”][et_pb_slide heading=”Three Key Principles” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Three-Principles.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Three circles containing symbols of the three principles of catholic social teaching: human dignity, subsidiarity, and solidarity.” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” z_index=”0″ overflow-x=”hidden” overflow-y=”hidden” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 300px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\nCatholic social teaching is built on three foundational principles –\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity<\/strong>,\u00a0Solidarity\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Subsidiarity.\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity, embodied in a correct understanding of the human person, is the greatest. The others flow from it. Good governments and good economic systems find ways of fostering the three principles.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Dignity” button_link=”\/human-dignity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Human-Dignity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/human-dignity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
This means a correct understanding of the human person and of each person\u2019s unique value. All Catholic social teaching flows from this: the inherent dignity of every person that comes from being made in God\u2019s image.\u00a0<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Solidarity” button_link=”\/solidarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Solidarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/solidarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Solidarity is not \u201ca feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others. It is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> Love of God and love of neighbor are, in fact, linked and form one, single commandment.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Subsidiarity” button_link=”\/subsidiarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Subsidiarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/subsidiarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Subsidiarity \u201cis a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry. So, too, it is an injustice and at the same time a grave evil and a disturbance of right order to transfer to the larger and higher collectivity functions which can be performed and provided for by the lesser and subordinate bodies\u201d. (Pope Pius XI)<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”Image & Text” module_id=”newsletter” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#eb7525″ z_index=”950″ display_conditions=”W3siaWQiOiI2MmUwMjk2ZS1lYmY5LTQwYWYtYmM0Mi0zZmEzYzUyNGNlYTEiLCJjb25kaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlIiwiY29uZGl0aW9uU2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiZGlzcGxheVJ1bGUiOiJpc05vdCIsImR5bmFtaWNQb3N0cyI6W3sibGFiZWwiOiJDYXJpdGFzIGluIFZlcml0YXRlIiwidmFsdWUiOiI0NzIxNCJ9XSwicG9zdFR5cGVMYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiYWRtaW5MYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiZW5hYmxlQ29uZGl0aW9uIjoib24ifSwib3BlcmF0b3IiOiJPUiJ9XQ==” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_direction=”left” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”45073″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_4_font=”Playfair Display|700|||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Sign Up For Our Newsletter:<\/h4>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]
<\/p>\n
‘Ethical’ porn is a delusion. Pornography, in any form, is a grave sin and an assault on human dignity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
What is <\/span>\u2018<\/span>Ethical<\/span>\u2019 <\/span>Porn?<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n“Ethical porn” refers to pornography produced in a way that prioritizes the well-being, consent, and fair treatment of everyone involved in its creation. It aims to counter traditional pornography for its exploitative practices, lack of transparency, and potential harm to performers.<\/span><\/p>\n‘Ethical’ Porn is an Illusion<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nLabeling pornography “ethical” does not change its moral standing. While ensuring fair treatment and consent for actors is certainly better than exploitation, the core problem lies in the very nature of pornography itself, which is inherently immoral.<\/span><\/p>\nThe “scourge of pornography<\/strong>…can only be condemned as a continuing attack on the dignity of men and women.” (Pope Francis)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nYou can\u2019t improve working conditions, sign a contract, and agree that everyone involved wants it, and make it something other than a scourge! This is like saying \u2018we must treat our slaves with respect and dignity\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\nThe Church and Pornography<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nThe Catholic Church fundamentally opposes all forms of pornography, including what might be termed “ethical porn”<\/strong>. According to Catholic teaching, pornography\u2014regardless of how it is produced\u2014objectifies human beings and distorts the purpose of human sexuality.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Violates Inherent Dignity of the Human Person<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Every person is created in the image of God and possesses inherent dignity. Pornography reduces individuals to objects of sexual gratification, which is a violation of that dignity.<\/span><\/p>\n“Pornography is<\/strong> immoral<\/strong> and ultimately anti\u2013social precisely because it is opposed to the truth about the human person<\/strong>, made in the image and likeness of God.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n“Pornography…offends against chastity because it perverts the conjugal act, the intimate giving of spouses to each other. It does grave injury to the dignity of its participants (actors, vendors, the public), since each one becomes an object of base pleasure and illicit profit for others. It is a grave offense<\/strong>.” <\/span>(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nWhether or not pornography is made “ethically” does not change the fundamental problem that it commodifies human beings. You cannot make ethical what is inherently unethical.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nLearn More about Human Dignity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Distorts the True Meaning of Human Sexuality<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Sexual activity has a specific, proper context: marriage between a man and a woman. Pornography separates sexual expression from this love, mutual self-giving, and openness to the creation of life.<\/span><\/p>\nBoth ‘ethical’ and feminist porn are wildly perverted, since “By its very nature<\/strong>,\u00a0pornography denies\u00a0<\/i>the genuine meaning<\/strong> of\u00a0human sexuality<\/i>“. (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Impacts Relationships<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>The Church points out that pornography, including ethical porn, has negative consequences on society and individual relationships. It can:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Harm marriages by promoting unrealistic or unhealthy expectations of sex.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Encourage selfishness and the use of others as means to an end, rather than fostering genuine love and mutual respect.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Lead to addiction and damage a person\u2019s capacity for authentic intimacy.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n“By reducing the body to an instrument for the gratification of the senses<\/strong>, pornography frustrates authentic moral growth and undermines the development of mature and healthy relationships. It leads inexorably to the exploitation of individuals<\/em>“. (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n“By its very nature,\u00a0pornography denies\u00a0<\/i>the genuine meaning of\u00a0human sexuality<\/i>“. (Pope St. John Paul II)<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\nPornography Impacts Society<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>\u201cWe would be seriously deluding ourselves were we to think that a society where an abnormal consumption of internet sex is rampant among adults could be capable of effectively protecting minors\u201d. (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nIn\u00a0addition to widespread addiction, abuse, and violence due to the repeated consumption of pornography, studies have shown how the brain is rewired, leading to failed relationships, further isolation, and depression. (Enough is Enough)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nWithin the industry itself, drug use, poor mental health, abuse, violence, greed and suicide are rampant. \u201cFemale adult film performers have significantly worse mental health and higher rates of depression than other California women of similar ages.\u201d (National Center for Sexual Exploitation)<\/a>\u00a0(Causes of Mortality Among Female Sex Workers)<\/a> (Psychiatry Online)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nThe industry\u2019s connection to, and even propagation of sex trafficking<\/strong> and the exploitation of minors, is also undeniable. (Intersections between Pornography and Human Trafficking)<\/a> (Exodus Cry)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nCall to Purity and Chastity<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nThe Church calls us to practice chastity, which means expressing sexuality in ways that align with God\u2019s design. This requires rejecting pornography in all its forms and promoting purity of heart. <\/span><\/p>\nA<\/span>rmed with Catholic social teaching, we can build\u00a0a<\/strong> “civilization of love<\/strong>“! (Congregation for Catholic Education, Foot Note, 35)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nCall to Public Action<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>The Church calls us to<\/strong> “increase<\/strong> public concern<\/strong>” and “awareness of the need for decisive intervention by<\/strong> the<\/strong> authorities<\/strong> charged with the promotion of the common good.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 3)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nThe Church holds not only the creators and consumers of pornography responsible, but authorities as well. \u201cCivil authorities should prevent the production and distribution of pornographic materials.\u201d (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\u201cIt is a matter not only of protecting children \u2013 an urgent task of the authorities and of all of us \u2013 but also of declaring pornography as a threat to public health.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n“To destroy such structures and replace them with more authentic forms of living in community is a task which demands courage and patience.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nFamily Counters a Porn Culture<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nIt all starts with the family! “[A]s the primary cell of society the family must be the first champion<\/strong>\u00a0<\/i>of the battle against this evil.”<\/span><\/p>\nThe Bottom Line<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nWhile “ethical porn” aims to address exploitation within the \u2018adult entertainment\u2019 industry, the Catholic Church rejects the concept entirely, as all pornography is harmful, regardless of how it is produced.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Assaults Human Dignity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Addiction, and the Common Good<\/a><\/span>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/the-family\/” button_text=”Learn More about the Importance of the Family” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/articles\/” button_text=”Back to Articles” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Widget of Issues ” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_css_main_element=”width: 100% !important;” make_fullwidth=”on” global_module=”31023″ saved_tabs=”all” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_class=”three-principles” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_text_color=”#084369″ width=”100%” width_last_edited=”off|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|||” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: auto;||margin: 0 auto !important;”][et_pb_slide heading=”Three Key Principles” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Three-Principles.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Three circles containing symbols of the three principles of catholic social teaching: human dignity, subsidiarity, and solidarity.” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” z_index=”0″ overflow-x=”hidden” overflow-y=”hidden” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 300px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\nCatholic social teaching is built on three foundational principles –\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity<\/strong>,\u00a0Solidarity\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Subsidiarity.\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity, embodied in a correct understanding of the human person, is the greatest. The others flow from it. Good governments and good economic systems find ways of fostering the three principles.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Dignity” button_link=”\/human-dignity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Human-Dignity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/human-dignity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
This means a correct understanding of the human person and of each person\u2019s unique value. All Catholic social teaching flows from this: the inherent dignity of every person that comes from being made in God\u2019s image.\u00a0<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Solidarity” button_link=”\/solidarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Solidarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/solidarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Solidarity is not \u201ca feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others. It is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> Love of God and love of neighbor are, in fact, linked and form one, single commandment.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Subsidiarity” button_link=”\/subsidiarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Subsidiarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/subsidiarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Subsidiarity \u201cis a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry. So, too, it is an injustice and at the same time a grave evil and a disturbance of right order to transfer to the larger and higher collectivity functions which can be performed and provided for by the lesser and subordinate bodies\u201d. (Pope Pius XI)<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”Image & Text” module_id=”newsletter” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#eb7525″ z_index=”950″ display_conditions=”W3siaWQiOiI2MmUwMjk2ZS1lYmY5LTQwYWYtYmM0Mi0zZmEzYzUyNGNlYTEiLCJjb25kaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlIiwiY29uZGl0aW9uU2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiZGlzcGxheVJ1bGUiOiJpc05vdCIsImR5bmFtaWNQb3N0cyI6W3sibGFiZWwiOiJDYXJpdGFzIGluIFZlcml0YXRlIiwidmFsdWUiOiI0NzIxNCJ9XSwicG9zdFR5cGVMYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiYWRtaW5MYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiZW5hYmxlQ29uZGl0aW9uIjoib24ifSwib3BlcmF0b3IiOiJPUiJ9XQ==” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_direction=”left” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”45073″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_4_font=”Playfair Display|700|||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Sign Up For Our Newsletter:<\/h4>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]
\n“Ethical porn” refers to pornography produced in a way that prioritizes the well-being, consent, and fair treatment of everyone involved in its creation. It aims to counter traditional pornography for its exploitative practices, lack of transparency, and potential harm to performers.<\/span><\/p>\n
‘Ethical’ Porn is an Illusion<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nLabeling pornography “ethical” does not change its moral standing. While ensuring fair treatment and consent for actors is certainly better than exploitation, the core problem lies in the very nature of pornography itself, which is inherently immoral.<\/span><\/p>\nThe “scourge of pornography<\/strong>…can only be condemned as a continuing attack on the dignity of men and women.” (Pope Francis)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nYou can\u2019t improve working conditions, sign a contract, and agree that everyone involved wants it, and make it something other than a scourge! This is like saying \u2018we must treat our slaves with respect and dignity\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\nThe Church and Pornography<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nThe Catholic Church fundamentally opposes all forms of pornography, including what might be termed “ethical porn”<\/strong>. According to Catholic teaching, pornography\u2014regardless of how it is produced\u2014objectifies human beings and distorts the purpose of human sexuality.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Violates Inherent Dignity of the Human Person<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Every person is created in the image of God and possesses inherent dignity. Pornography reduces individuals to objects of sexual gratification, which is a violation of that dignity.<\/span><\/p>\n“Pornography is<\/strong> immoral<\/strong> and ultimately anti\u2013social precisely because it is opposed to the truth about the human person<\/strong>, made in the image and likeness of God.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n“Pornography…offends against chastity because it perverts the conjugal act, the intimate giving of spouses to each other. It does grave injury to the dignity of its participants (actors, vendors, the public), since each one becomes an object of base pleasure and illicit profit for others. It is a grave offense<\/strong>.” <\/span>(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nWhether or not pornography is made “ethically” does not change the fundamental problem that it commodifies human beings. You cannot make ethical what is inherently unethical.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\nLearn More about Human Dignity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Distorts the True Meaning of Human Sexuality<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Sexual activity has a specific, proper context: marriage between a man and a woman. Pornography separates sexual expression from this love, mutual self-giving, and openness to the creation of life.<\/span><\/p>\nBoth ‘ethical’ and feminist porn are wildly perverted, since “By its very nature<\/strong>,\u00a0pornography denies\u00a0<\/i>the genuine meaning<\/strong> of\u00a0human sexuality<\/i>“. (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Impacts Relationships<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>The Church points out that pornography, including ethical porn, has negative consequences on society and individual relationships. It can:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Harm marriages by promoting unrealistic or unhealthy expectations of sex.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Encourage selfishness and the use of others as means to an end, rather than fostering genuine love and mutual respect.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Lead to addiction and damage a person\u2019s capacity for authentic intimacy.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n“By reducing the body to an instrument for the gratification of the senses<\/strong>, pornography frustrates authentic moral growth and undermines the development of mature and healthy relationships. It leads inexorably to the exploitation of individuals<\/em>“. (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n“By its very nature,\u00a0pornography denies\u00a0<\/i>the genuine meaning of\u00a0human sexuality<\/i>“. (Pope St. John Paul II)<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\nPornography Impacts Society<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>\u201cWe would be seriously deluding ourselves were we to think that a society where an abnormal consumption of internet sex is rampant among adults could be capable of effectively protecting minors\u201d. (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nIn\u00a0addition to widespread addiction, abuse, and violence due to the repeated consumption of pornography, studies have shown how the brain is rewired, leading to failed relationships, further isolation, and depression. (Enough is Enough)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nWithin the industry itself, drug use, poor mental health, abuse, violence, greed and suicide are rampant. \u201cFemale adult film performers have significantly worse mental health and higher rates of depression than other California women of similar ages.\u201d (National Center for Sexual Exploitation)<\/a>\u00a0(Causes of Mortality Among Female Sex Workers)<\/a> (Psychiatry Online)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nThe industry\u2019s connection to, and even propagation of sex trafficking<\/strong> and the exploitation of minors, is also undeniable. (Intersections between Pornography and Human Trafficking)<\/a> (Exodus Cry)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nCall to Purity and Chastity<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nThe Church calls us to practice chastity, which means expressing sexuality in ways that align with God\u2019s design. This requires rejecting pornography in all its forms and promoting purity of heart. <\/span><\/p>\nA<\/span>rmed with Catholic social teaching, we can build\u00a0a<\/strong> “civilization of love<\/strong>“! (Congregation for Catholic Education, Foot Note, 35)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nCall to Public Action<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>The Church calls us to<\/strong> “increase<\/strong> public concern<\/strong>” and “awareness of the need for decisive intervention by<\/strong> the<\/strong> authorities<\/strong> charged with the promotion of the common good.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 3)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nThe Church holds not only the creators and consumers of pornography responsible, but authorities as well. \u201cCivil authorities should prevent the production and distribution of pornographic materials.\u201d (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\u201cIt is a matter not only of protecting children \u2013 an urgent task of the authorities and of all of us \u2013 but also of declaring pornography as a threat to public health.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n“To destroy such structures and replace them with more authentic forms of living in community is a task which demands courage and patience.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nFamily Counters a Porn Culture<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nIt all starts with the family! “[A]s the primary cell of society the family must be the first champion<\/strong>\u00a0<\/i>of the battle against this evil.”<\/span><\/p>\nThe Bottom Line<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nWhile “ethical porn” aims to address exploitation within the \u2018adult entertainment\u2019 industry, the Catholic Church rejects the concept entirely, as all pornography is harmful, regardless of how it is produced.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Assaults Human Dignity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Addiction, and the Common Good<\/a><\/span>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/the-family\/” button_text=”Learn More about the Importance of the Family” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/articles\/” button_text=”Back to Articles” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Widget of Issues ” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_css_main_element=”width: 100% !important;” make_fullwidth=”on” global_module=”31023″ saved_tabs=”all” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_class=”three-principles” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_text_color=”#084369″ width=”100%” width_last_edited=”off|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|||” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: auto;||margin: 0 auto !important;”][et_pb_slide heading=”Three Key Principles” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Three-Principles.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Three circles containing symbols of the three principles of catholic social teaching: human dignity, subsidiarity, and solidarity.” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” z_index=”0″ overflow-x=”hidden” overflow-y=”hidden” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 300px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\nCatholic social teaching is built on three foundational principles –\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity<\/strong>,\u00a0Solidarity\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Subsidiarity.\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity, embodied in a correct understanding of the human person, is the greatest. The others flow from it. Good governments and good economic systems find ways of fostering the three principles.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Dignity” button_link=”\/human-dignity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Human-Dignity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/human-dignity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
This means a correct understanding of the human person and of each person\u2019s unique value. All Catholic social teaching flows from this: the inherent dignity of every person that comes from being made in God\u2019s image.\u00a0<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Solidarity” button_link=”\/solidarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Solidarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/solidarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Solidarity is not \u201ca feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others. It is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> Love of God and love of neighbor are, in fact, linked and form one, single commandment.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Subsidiarity” button_link=”\/subsidiarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Subsidiarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/subsidiarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
Subsidiarity \u201cis a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry. So, too, it is an injustice and at the same time a grave evil and a disturbance of right order to transfer to the larger and higher collectivity functions which can be performed and provided for by the lesser and subordinate bodies\u201d. (Pope Pius XI)<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”Image & Text” module_id=”newsletter” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#eb7525″ z_index=”950″ display_conditions=”W3siaWQiOiI2MmUwMjk2ZS1lYmY5LTQwYWYtYmM0Mi0zZmEzYzUyNGNlYTEiLCJjb25kaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlIiwiY29uZGl0aW9uU2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiZGlzcGxheVJ1bGUiOiJpc05vdCIsImR5bmFtaWNQb3N0cyI6W3sibGFiZWwiOiJDYXJpdGFzIGluIFZlcml0YXRlIiwidmFsdWUiOiI0NzIxNCJ9XSwicG9zdFR5cGVMYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiYWRtaW5MYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiZW5hYmxlQ29uZGl0aW9uIjoib24ifSwib3BlcmF0b3IiOiJPUiJ9XQ==” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_direction=”left” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”45073″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_4_font=”Playfair Display|700|||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Sign Up For Our Newsletter:<\/h4>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]
\nLabeling pornography “ethical” does not change its moral standing. While ensuring fair treatment and consent for actors is certainly better than exploitation, the core problem lies in the very nature of pornography itself, which is inherently immoral.<\/span><\/p>\n
The “scourge of pornography<\/strong>…can only be condemned as a continuing attack on the dignity of men and women.” (Pope Francis)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n You can\u2019t improve working conditions, sign a contract, and agree that everyone involved wants it, and make it something other than a scourge! This is like saying \u2018we must treat our slaves with respect and dignity\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\n “Pornography is<\/strong> immoral<\/strong> and ultimately anti\u2013social precisely because it is opposed to the truth about the human person<\/strong>, made in the image and likeness of God.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n “Pornography…offends against chastity because it perverts the conjugal act, the intimate giving of spouses to each other. It does grave injury to the dignity of its participants (actors, vendors, the public), since each one becomes an object of base pleasure and illicit profit for others. It is a grave offense<\/strong>.” <\/span>(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n Whether or not pornography is made “ethically” does not change the fundamental problem that it commodifies human beings. You cannot make ethical what is inherently unethical.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Learn More about Human Dignity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n Both ‘ethical’ and feminist porn are wildly perverted, since “By its very nature<\/strong>,\u00a0pornography denies\u00a0<\/i>the genuine meaning<\/strong> of\u00a0human sexuality<\/i>“. (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n “By its very nature,\u00a0pornography denies\u00a0<\/i>the genuine meaning of\u00a0human sexuality<\/i>“. (Pope St. John Paul II)<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n In\u00a0addition to widespread addiction, abuse, and violence due to the repeated consumption of pornography, studies have shown how the brain is rewired, leading to failed relationships, further isolation, and depression. (Enough is Enough)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n Within the industry itself, drug use, poor mental health, abuse, violence, greed and suicide are rampant. \u201cFemale adult film performers have significantly worse mental health and higher rates of depression than other California women of similar ages.\u201d (National Center for Sexual Exploitation)<\/a>\u00a0(Causes of Mortality Among Female Sex Workers)<\/a> (Psychiatry Online)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n The industry\u2019s connection to, and even propagation of sex trafficking<\/strong> and the exploitation of minors, is also undeniable. (Intersections between Pornography and Human Trafficking)<\/a> (Exodus Cry)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n A<\/span>rmed with Catholic social teaching, we can build\u00a0a<\/strong> “civilization of love<\/strong>“! (Congregation for Catholic Education, Foot Note, 35)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n The Church holds not only the creators and consumers of pornography responsible, but authorities as well. \u201cCivil authorities should prevent the production and distribution of pornographic materials.\u201d (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIt is a matter not only of protecting children \u2013 an urgent task of the authorities and of all of us \u2013 but also of declaring pornography as a threat to public health.\u201d (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n “To destroy such structures and replace them with more authentic forms of living in community is a task which demands courage and patience.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\n Pornography Assaults Human Dignity<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n Pornography Addiction, and the Common Good<\/a><\/span>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/the-family\/” button_text=”Learn More about the Importance of the Family” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_button button_url=”\/articles\/” button_text=”Back to Articles” button_alignment=”center” module_class=”hover-btn-border” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”30px” button_text_color=”#054368″ button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”0px” button_font=”|600||on|||||” button_icon=”5||divi||400″ button_on_hover=”off” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”on” button_text_color__hover=”#054368″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Widget of Issues ” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px||” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_5,3_5,1_5″ use_custom_gutter=”on” module_class=” et_pb_row_fullwidth” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”” width_last_edited=”on|desktop” max_width=”100%” max_width_tablet=”100%” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” custom_css_main_element=”width: 100% !important;” make_fullwidth=”on” global_module=”31023″ saved_tabs=”all” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_slider show_image_video_mobile=”on” module_class=”three-principles” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” header_text_color=”#084369″ header_font_size=”24px” header_line_height=”1.5em” body_text_color=”#084369″ width=”100%” width_last_edited=”off|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|||” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding=”||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_css_slide_image_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_slide_image_phone=”width: auto;||margin: 0 auto !important;”][et_pb_slide heading=”Three Key Principles” button_link=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Three-Principles.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” image_alt=”Three circles containing symbols of the three principles of catholic social teaching: human dignity, subsidiarity, and solidarity.” image_tablet=”” image_phone=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/3-Key-principle-icons-resized.png” image_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.19.5″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” z_index=”0″ overflow-x=”hidden” overflow-y=”hidden” link_option_url=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/catholic-social-teaching-principles\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 300px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n Catholic social teaching is built on three foundational principles –\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity<\/strong>,\u00a0Solidarity\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Subsidiarity.\u00a0<\/strong>Human Dignity, embodied in a correct understanding of the human person, is the greatest. The others flow from it. Good governments and good economic systems find ways of fostering the three principles.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Human Dignity” button_link=”\/human-dignity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Human-Dignity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/human-dignity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n This means a correct understanding of the human person and of each person\u2019s unique value. All Catholic social teaching flows from this: the inherent dignity of every person that comes from being made in God\u2019s image.\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Solidarity” button_link=”\/solidarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Solidarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/solidarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n Solidarity is not \u201ca feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of others. It is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good\u201d. (Pope St. John Paul II, 38)<\/a> Love of God and love of neighbor are, in fact, linked and form one, single commandment.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”Subsidiarity” button_link=”\/subsidiarity\/” image=”https:\/\/capp-usa.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Subsidiarity.png” use_bg_overlay=”off” use_text_overlay=”off” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ header_font=”||||||||” background_color=”#ffffff” button_on_hover=”on” link_option_url=”\/subsidiarity\/” custom_css_slide_image=”width: 200px !important;||margin: 0 auto !important;” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n Subsidiarity \u201cis a fundamental principle of social philosophy, fixed and unchangeable, that one should not withdraw from individuals and commit to the community what they can accomplish by their own enterprise and industry. So, too, it is an injustice and at the same time a grave evil and a disturbance of right order to transfer to the larger and higher collectivity functions which can be performed and provided for by the lesser and subordinate bodies\u201d. (Pope Pius XI)<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_slider][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” admin_label=”Image & Text” module_id=”newsletter” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ background_color=”#eb7525″ z_index=”950″ display_conditions=”W3siaWQiOiI2MmUwMjk2ZS1lYmY5LTQwYWYtYmM0Mi0zZmEzYzUyNGNlYTEiLCJjb25kaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlIiwiY29uZGl0aW9uU2V0dGluZ3MiOnsiZGlzcGxheVJ1bGUiOiJpc05vdCIsImR5bmFtaWNQb3N0cyI6W3sibGFiZWwiOiJDYXJpdGFzIGluIFZlcml0YXRlIiwidmFsdWUiOiI0NzIxNCJ9XSwicG9zdFR5cGVMYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiYWRtaW5MYWJlbCI6IlBhZ2VzIiwiZW5hYmxlQ29uZGl0aW9uIjoib24ifSwib3BlcmF0b3IiOiJPUiJ9XQ==” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px||false|false” animation_direction=”left” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_module=”45073″ saved_tabs=”all” locked=”off” collapsed=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ make_equal=”on” module_class=”mosaic_width” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” animation_style=”fade” animation_delay=”200ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ text_font=”Playfair Display||||||||” text_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font=”||||||||” header_text_align=”center” header_text_color=”#eb7525″ header_2_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_text_color=”#ffffff” header_3_font_size=”30px” header_4_font=”Playfair Display|700|||||||” header_4_text_color=”#ffffff” header_4_font_size=”32px” text_orientation=”center” custom_margin=”||” custom_padding=”||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ module_class=”ds-vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.21.0″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]The Church and Pornography<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nThe Catholic Church fundamentally opposes all forms of pornography, including what might be termed “ethical porn”<\/strong>. According to Catholic teaching, pornography\u2014regardless of how it is produced\u2014objectifies human beings and distorts the purpose of human sexuality.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Violates Inherent Dignity of the Human Person<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Every person is created in the image of God and possesses inherent dignity. Pornography reduces individuals to objects of sexual gratification, which is a violation of that dignity.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Distorts the True Meaning of Human Sexuality<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Sexual activity has a specific, proper context: marriage between a man and a woman. Pornography separates sexual expression from this love, mutual self-giving, and openness to the creation of life.<\/span><\/p>\nPornography Impacts Relationships<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>The Church points out that pornography, including ethical porn, has negative consequences on society and individual relationships. It can:<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n“By reducing the body to an instrument for the gratification of the senses<\/strong>, pornography frustrates authentic moral growth and undermines the development of mature and healthy relationships. It leads inexorably to the exploitation of individuals<\/em>“. (Pope St. John Paul II, 2)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nPornography Impacts Society<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>\u201cWe would be seriously deluding ourselves were we to think that a society where an abnormal consumption of internet sex is rampant among adults could be capable of effectively protecting minors\u201d. (Pope Francis)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\nCall to Purity and Chastity<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nThe Church calls us to practice chastity, which means expressing sexuality in ways that align with God\u2019s design. This requires rejecting pornography in all its forms and promoting purity of heart. <\/span><\/p>\nCall to Public Action<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>The Church calls us to<\/strong> “increase<\/strong> public concern<\/strong>” and “awareness of the need for decisive intervention by<\/strong> the<\/strong> authorities<\/strong> charged with the promotion of the common good.” (Pope St. John Paul II, 3)<\/a> <\/span><\/p>\nFamily Counters a Porn Culture<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nIt all starts with the family! “[A]s the primary cell of society the family must be the first champion<\/strong>\u00a0<\/i>of the battle against this evil.”<\/span><\/p>\nThe Bottom Line<\/span><\/h2>\n
\nWhile “ethical porn” aims to address exploitation within the \u2018adult entertainment\u2019 industry, the Catholic Church rejects the concept entirely, as all pornography is harmful, regardless of how it is produced.<\/span><\/p>\nSign Up For Our Newsletter:<\/h4>\n