Horny and human, adult content is as American as apple pie

The invention of VHS tapes (1976) and DVDs (1996) gave way to more visually engaging alternatives to the still images in magazines and literature. In 1993, the introduction of the internet massively impacted the accessibility of pornography. The ease of sharing and consuming digital content led to a massive eruption of internet pornography, turning traditional modes of censorship on its head. The gift of the internet also facilitated the creation and distribution of amateur content, further diversifying the menu of adult content available to the starved public.

This sparked debates on the impacts of easily accessible online pornography, involving issues of public health and freedom of expression.

Early silent films with suggestive themes paved the way for the development of production companies dedicated explicitly to adult films. To this day, the internet has quickly and understandably become the lightly guarded gateway to pornography, with infinite websites catering to all pallets, from vanilla to niche. The accessibility and anonymity provided by the internet have, in turn, impacted user behavior and consumption patterns.

With the growing availability of porn comes conversations about its potential influence on broader cultural norms. Many express concerns about the normalization of specific sexual practices and the objectification of those involved. Others argue that exposure to porn contributes to a culture of hyper-sexualization and desensitization, which can impact societal views on sexuality and gender roles. Pornography's broad array of formats and niches further divides opinions and perspectives on the issue.

It is not just porn that influences its viewers, however.

While many claim that pornography reinforces patriarchal ideals, others, including pro-sex/sex-positive feminists, argue that porn can be a form of female empowerment. They emphasize agency, consent, and pleasure as being empowering for women, allowing them to take control of the narrative and their bodies. A booming movement championing the creation of ethical and feminist pornography highlights informed consent, proper compensation for its performers, and the portrayal of diverse bodies and sexualities in a non-exploitative manner. This trend mirrors the growing awareness of potential harms associated with traditional pornography and a stronger push for content that aligns with contemporary values focusing on consent, equality, and respect.

Recently, the adult film industry has experienced a shift, moving away from traditional studio productions towards self-produced content platforms like OnlyFans. With the emergence of fan sites came the opportunity for creators to bypass traditional studios and connect directly with their audience, providing content creators with autonomy. Through the subscription model, creators can develop and maintain direct relationships between themselves and their audience.

This transition has implications for all involved in the adult content ecosystem. Studios face increased competition from independent creators and may need to adapt by offering more diverse content or revenue-sharing models to retain talent. For independent content creators, fan sites provide greater creative control and continuous income while also making creators responsible for their marketing, production, and management. For consumers, subscription-based platforms offer a wider variety of content with more personalized engagement with performers.

But one thing is clear: porn is not going anywhere and will continue evolving alongside a society that continues to consume it. Like the Hydra of Greek mythology, if you chop off one head, three more business-savvy ones will pop up and prosper.

As for myself, I will continue to document my sexcapades for those who'd like to subscribe to it. There's something about knowing that I am providing people with momentary joy, one orgasm at a time, while paying my grad school tuition that makes me smile. Like others, I see no value in shaming any form of expression.

There will inevitably always be haters, but to little surprise, some of my harshest online trolls are also my biggest tippers.

Open conversations on sexuality, consent, and healthy relationships are great places to fuel positive change. Fostering ethical practices within the industry is also paramount. Only through a conscious, communal effort - with a touch less judgment - can the future of pornography be navigated responsibly and positively for everyone on both sides of the screen.

So hold onto your seats, or whatever rod is in reach, because people have fapped since the dawn of time and will likely not stop until the sun sets on our horny little species.

AJ Sloan is an adult film actor and scriptwriter, queer sex columnist, and content creator. He has a B.A. in anthropology and sociology from Hunter College and is currently in grad school for clinical psychology at Antioch University. He has worked with top studios both stateside and abroad and has many columns under his belt as the lead porn star writer for Fleshbot, the longest-running porn blog. Keep in touch with him via Instagram.

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