Pornography debate draws more than 1,000
Former adult film star Ron Jeremy and recovering pornography addict Michael Leahy agreed on one thing Tuesday night – students face more sexual imagery than ever before.
Both men openly discussed the issue of pornography in front of around 1,200 students in Warriner Hall’s Plachta Auditorium. The Program Board-sponsored debate sparked endless energy and audience participation.
“I think it was what we were expecting,” said Heather Hillman, Macomb junior and Program Board public relations chair. “I don’t think it was what students were expecting.”
The event started 15 minutes late, leaving the audience restless. When Jeremy was finally introduced many in the crowd gave him a standing ovation.
Each debater gave an opening statement, and Leahy explained how pornography has “permeated our culture” and how it often replaces more important things in life.
Jeremy said the adult industry doesn’t want people addicted to it and those at risk should stay away. He added pornography shouldn’t get in the way of important things, like studying.
“I believe we should have everything in moderation,” he said.
He also pointed out the industry has its own self-regulation. However, individuals not part of the industry, many of which are on the Internet, give it a bad name.
“We don’t target kids,” Jeremy said. “We are marked 18 and older ... We’re doing the best we can.”
Leahy argued the multi-billion dollar industry “had no incentive” to prevent underage individuals from viewing porn. Then he asked the audience who had seen porn before they were 18 and nearly everyone raised their hand.
After the opening statements, the debaters fielded questions from an eager audience.
Jeremy said pornography does not directly cause violence. He said his industry is all about “happy, healthy, consensual sex.”
Leahy said pornography has a negative impact on sexual pleasure. He said during his addiction, which almost ruined his marriage, he looked at women as “an assembly of body parts.”
“It’s going to have an effect,” Leahy said. “Where does that leave you? How does that affect your relationships in the future?”
Both debaters agreed parents need to educate their kids about both sides of the issue.
Ovid-Elsie freshman Matt Bowen said he learned a lot of things about the porn industry and consequences related to it.
“(Leahy) was standing his ground,” he said. “It was kind of an enjoyable discussion.”
Hazel Park senior Jacqueline Martina said she felt Jeremy made a good point about how sexual expression is good.
“(Pornography) is the same as anything else; if you abuse it can be unhealthy,” she said.
