Prostitution can never be seen as ‘a glorious cycle of song,’ as suggested by the Oscar-winning film ‘Anora.’ The moral questions surrounding prostitution have long perplexed writers and governments, with the blame for it equally apportioned between those who sin for pay and those who pay for sin. Despite attempts in film and literature to challenge the unfavorable view of prostitutes and highlight their common humanity, the reality for many is far from glorious.
In my medical career, I encountered prostitutes whose lives were marked by sordidness, violence, exploitation, poverty, and drug addiction. While some argue that selling one’s body is a basic human right, the harsh reality of prostitution often involves suffering and desperation. The portrayal of prostitution in different societies, from the tolerated red-light district in Amsterdam to the legal but inconsistent approach in Britain, raises questions about the true impact of such policies.
The complex issue of prostitution cannot be ignored, and while perfect solutions may be elusive, it is essential to consider the well-being and dignity of those involved. The stark realities of prostitution, as seen in the lives of many individuals, challenge the romanticized notions perpetuated by popular culture.
The concept of harm reduction can bring about its own set of harms, some of which may be intangible but ultimately outweigh the benefits it aims to provide.
It is crucial to not romanticize or glamorize prostitution in any way. I remember a young girl from a stable middle-class background, intelligent and with a promising future, who was lured by the allure of the seedy underworld. She left her comfortable home and ended up entangled with two drug dealers. They trapped her, forcibly injected her with heroin, and intended to turn her into a prostitute in exchange for drugs. Tragically, she met her demise at their hands, either by overdose or suicide from a lethal dose. They sought advice from a shady lawyer on how to dispose of her body, suggesting dumping it in a local reservoir.
It is evident that prostitution is not a glamorous or romanticized lifestyle.
Opinions expressed in this piece are solely those of the author and may not align with the perspectives of The Epoch Times.
