I'm not necessarily opposed, however...
Sex work is a vector for spreading STD's, some of which are debilitating and/or deadly. What have been the results in countries and places where it has been legalized? Whose system worked the best for preventing the spread of STD's?The legalization of prostitution would greatly benefit society, save many lives
Maybe. The jury is still out on whether it solves more abuse cases than it causes. I have heard positive and negative views on the results of experiements with it. Unfortunately people like to sexually abuse other people, so abusive actions will remain underground. How does legalizing prostitution bring them under scrutiny?and prevent many instances of abuse.
Its true that this allows any sex worker to report anyone as a pimp without being arrested for sex work. Many enjoy the pimping of people. Its not just the money, and criminal gangs will continue to operate, using drugs and other means to keep sex workers under their thumb. Guys will still pimp out wives, daughters etc. That's the history of the world. We aren't talking about a complete end to pimping, and so pimps will probably adapt rather than disappear.Prevention of pimping and human trafficking: Women who are being abused by pimps would no longer be afraid of facing prosecution for prostitution, and thus would be more inclined to report pimps to law enforcement. This is because, consensual prostitution would be a legalized activity, but pimping would be strictly illegal. Thus, pimping would decrease.
That is good news, but it requires more than a huffpost article to confirm it.Reduction of rape: There is strong evidence to suggest a substantial reduction in rape and sexual abuse in areas where prostitution has been legalized. (see: Legal prostitution zones reduce incidents of rape and sexual abuse | HuffPost)
Most are celibate not because they couldn't find a prostitute but for other reasons. Prostitutes are available everywhere, operating beneath the gaze of the public. I encounter them in many places where prostitution is illegal. I've encountered them in several southern states. All you would need to do is look for a connection, someone who is involved in anything illegal and ask them. Often if you stay in a hotel overnight you'll get a knock on your door. Its not as if you have to put up a sign or advertise that you'd like a prostitute.Prevention of violent crime, shootings, and terrorist attacks: There have been many tragic and horrible terrorist attacks and shootings that have been committed by deranged, involuntarily celibate men. In fact, close to half of mass shootings are committed by men who are involuntarily celibate. Thus, if prostitution (always in a consensual context) were an option, it is very possible that many of these horrendous tragedies could be prevented.
It needs more data in our conservative country. People don't generally believe in making large changes to society without compelling evidence that its necessary.As we can see, prevention of sexual abuse and violent crime are excellent reasons to legalize prostitution. I believe that the legalization of prostitution would save many lives and prevent many cases of abuse. It is an issue that needs to be raised in politics due to its immense potential for societal benefits. I believe that it is one of the most beneficial changes that could possibly be made in our society.