A Nihilistic Tradition

In Prostitution, Trafficking, and Cultural Amnesia, Melissa Farley observes that, “In order to normalize prostitution in everybody’s culture, postmodern theory helps to keep the real harms of prostitution, pornography and trafficking invisible.” She also notes the racialized hierarchy of the industry:

Within the gendered institution of prostitution, race and class create a familiar hierarchy with indigenous women at its lowest point. Especially vulnerable to violence from wars and economic devastation, indigenous women are brutally exploited in prostitution.

As such, “the academic tradition of postmodern theory,” says Dr. Farley, “hides and trivializes real oppression in the world.” You can learn more about How Prostitution Works.