Debate: Should Sex Sell?

Given the strength of feeling surrounding this year’s motion for the Junior Literary Society’s annual Debate, it is no surprise that this was a controversial and stimulating evening. Arguing in support of the motion ‘This House Would Legalise Prostitution’ were H. Harcus (A), K. Benn (A) and C. Fox-Davies (S). Countering this argument were E. Drew (G), H. Green (G) and S. Kingston-Jones (S).

K. Benn opened the proceedings, primarily focusing on the financial benefits of legalising the industry; a significant amount could be gained through taxation, which could be spent on improving healthcare, as just one example.

H. Harcus encouraged the audience to consider the positive impact on healthcare that legalising prostitution would have. Young men and women in a vulnerable position would be more prepared to seek medical care if they did not feel tied down by the law.

Speaking for the opposition, E. Drew countered by opening with the point that prostitution is rarely a choice; most young people are driven to prostitution through a lack of choice. Indeed, she argued that an extremist view could therefore categorise prostitution as being almost akin to rape and she asked the audience to consider how our society could condone this by legalising the industry. She also addressed the issue of taxation and the difficulties of this in terms of the practicalities involved, as well as the immoral position in which it would place the government.

H. Green focused on the objectification of women and asked the audience to consider the implications of creating the human body as a good that can be bought and sold like any other commodity. Furthermore, she pointed out that prostitution was often linked with other criminal activities such as drugs; indeed drugs have in many cases become a currency with which to buy prostitutes. Legalising prostitution would therefore create a situation in which such underground activities could thrive.

The motion was then opened up to a Floor vote. A considerable number of pupils abstained, but ultimately, to the surprise of many, the motion was carried by two votes. It was wonderful to see so many pupils in attendance at the conclusion of what has been an exhausting yet productive term. Josh Benn (S), who kindly chaired the Debate, commented on that, given the calibre of the Speakers, he hopes to see our first-time debaters become a regular fixture within the Senior Debating Society in future years. Many thanks and congratulations should go to all those involved for creating such an engaging and stimulating evening.