The Problems with Decriminalization: Surveillance and Stigma in Nevada Brothels

Abstract

A critical analysis of radical feminist research on legal sex work in Nevada brothels reflects a complex web of social, religious, economic, and female agency issues affecting women workers worldwide. Identifying the abusive, isolationist, and restrictive practices of Nevada brothels reveals a legal occupation that is still far closer to sexual slavery than the fantasy of empowerment promoted by advocates. In particular I focus on the “codes of conduct” at each brothel that work to sever the sex worker from a society outside the sex industry. Using these “codes of conduct” I propose that in the case of Nevada, decriminalization has not eliminated the more dangerous aspects of illegal prostitution, such as pimping, physical abuse and drug/alcohol use. Exploring the sex-radical feminist perspectives on sex work, and the growing sex worker rights movement I examine the inconsistencies of both viewpoints and address the problems found in the use of specific categories (such as exploitative or empowering) to define sex work. This emphasis on categories has resulted in a variety of research that is ultimately contradictory, criticized for lacking objectivity, and seemingly offers no solid conclusions; allowing critics to shift their focus from the research to infamous feminist in-fighting over sex work. These flaws have left the working women at the core of the research out of the equation entirely and to truly help the women involved and improve academic research on sex work it is essential to include the voices, opinions, and reactions of the women within the sex industry.

Jennifer Apple, B.A, Women’s Studies and Sociology, M.A. Candidate, Graduate Teaching Associate
University: Ohio State University, Women’s Studies Department
Location: Columbus, OH
Title of Presentation: The Problems with Decriminalization: Surveillance and Stigma in Nevada Brothels