The harm of pornography

It is tempting to think that there is no great harm to pornography. It is something that you do in the privacy of your own home, and no-one seems to get hurt. What’s the problem?

There is a profound problem with pornography.

With pornography, the true longing for love, deeply embedded in all of us, becomes distorted by sin. Pornography acts as a kind of false fulfilment to our deepest longings for love, acceptance and unity. As a result, the person who uses pornography somehow undermines his or her great dignity as being created in the image and likeness of God. Saint Paul reminds us that we are “temples of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6,19-20). Our bodies must be used in a way that pays heed to that sublime, yet challenging, reality.

Pornography causes harm to the viewer. It causes harm to relationships. It causes harm to those involved in the industry.

It is extremely easy to access pornography. But just because it is possible does not mean that it is right.

There are many people affected by pornography: the “actors” themselves, exposing the most intimate parts of their bodies to countless anonymous viewers. But the body is made for the glorification of God! Then there are those who view pornography. Little by little, addiction can easily set in. Thirdly, husbands and wives become victims when pornography can destroy marriages. Secret sessions on the internet set up barriers between husband and wife. Fourthly, children who have access to the internet can – even unwittingly – come across pornographic material.