Graduation Date
Spring 2004
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Master of Arts degree with a major in Sociology
Program
Sociology
Committee Chair Name
Dr. Lee H. Bowker
Committee Chair Affiliation
Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff
Second Committee Member Name
Dr. Judith K. Little
Third Committee Member Name
Dr. Sing Chew
Fourth Committee Member Name
Dr. Donna Shafer
Keywords
Sociology
Subject Categories
Sociology
Abstract
This thesis investigates the proposition that prostitution should be viewed as legitimate work in order to minimize the abuse and exploitation directed at sex workers by clients, pimps, and those engaged in trafficking. This thesis argues that paid sex work should be viewed as a public health and social welfare problem, not a criminal act that is socially constructed along rigid moral boundaries. Evaluation of the effectiveness of legal sex work in promoting safer sex practices is included in the thesis. Additionally, a legal analysis of various policies and legislation proposed and developed in relation to prostitution and the different legal strategies and options currently in place or recommended is provided. The theoretical framework on which this thesis is based includes a theory of society and state and the manner in which the law is enacted to punish sex workers. Multiple social science articles and publications highlighting the personal experiences of sex workers are used to support the proposition that prostitution should be considered legitimate work. Within the literature review, a definition of sex work is provided in addition to defining the differences between illegal trafficking and regulated prostitution. Moreover, the different types of sex work and earnings scales are included. For research purposes, Albert and Warner’s (1988) study of condom-use practices in two of Nevada’s legal brothels is compared to this researcher’s conversations and observations of sex workers in Southeast Asia. Albert and Warner’s work is imperative for analysis of regulated prostitution in terms of healthcare. Much of the research investigating sex work is constructed around prostitution as oppressive and exploitative. This limits arguments for legalization in viewing sex work as a healthcare issue. This thesis concludes by addressing the strengths and weaknesses of the brothel model currently in place in Nevada and provides recommendations to consider for future investigation.
Recommended Citation
Osborne, Nicholas J., "Prostitution as Legitimate Work: an Analysis of Sex Work in America" (2004). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 2495.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/2495