The Feminist Sex Wars

The Feminist Sex Wars, primarily in the 1970s and 1980s, involved debates within feminism about sexuality, pornography, and BDSM. Some feminists argued that such content and practices objectify and harm women, advocating for censorship and stricter standards. Others believed that women should have the freedom to explore sexuality consensually and viewed these practices as empowering expressions of autonomy. The debates reflected broader tensions between fighting against misogyny and respecting individual sexual freedom, highlighting diverse perspectives within feminism on how best to advocate for gender equality and women's rights.