One of the oldest professions known to mankind in a civilized culture is deemed illegal in our present day society, but is it really that bad?
Prostitution in our country is an extremely dangerous career. Decriminalizing it could quite possibly add safety while decreasing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
Legalizing brothels would give prostitutes the same rights and protection as other hard-working professionals. We won’t have the interesting documentaries on HBO about pimps and hookers on dangerous corners, but there could be a large decrease in the spread of unwanted bumps and itches.
If brothels are regulated, then only women of age who voluntarily choose to make a living this way and are medically safe will help combat sexual violence everywhere.
They clearly won’t need a pimp beating them and taking their money if they have a bouncer or security guard at the door checking I.D.’s and handing out condoms. Giving women control over their own career, even if it isn’t approved by the church, only adds safety for everyone.
Sure the women who don’t qualify for a brothel will still be on the streets, but how successful will they be if the customer knows he can get the same thing in a safe, professional environment.
Some may say it is inhumane and demeans women, but what if they choose to make a living this way? Who are we to say what career they choose?
An article in The New York Times posted that in 2008, a city statistic showed 142 licensed brothels in Amsterdam, with about 500 window displays, and officials estimated that sexual transactions in Amsterdam account for about $100 million (U.S.) per year.
The government taxes everything, and if one city can yield that type of profit then how much would our entire state profit?
Sure, there are downfalls; exposing children to sex, the opinion of degrading women and the idea of increased human trafficking.
The internet exposes more women than any brothel could, and if women choose to work in this industry, then I am sure they don’t think they are being degraded.
Also, if the government regulates the criteria for hiring prostitutes just like they regulate the hiring of children or increasing diversity, then what’s the big deal?
Making prostitution legal will take the power away from criminals and give it to the women who use this industry to survive.
Dan Miller is a senior studying engineering management and technology.
