Legalizing Prostitution

Prostitution is often called a "necessary evil," primarily because it has always existed and still does in all societies (Legalized 2003). Regardless of this fact, the issue of decriminalizing prostitution creates as much controversy and debate in society as those of decriminalizing marijuana or recognizing gay marriages. The reason for such heated debate is the nature of policymaking in the United States. Conservative, right-wing interest groups like the New Right and Religious Right maintain significant influence over U.S. policy, particularly in the right-oriented, born again Christian administration of George Bush. Despite such opposition to legalizing prostitution, many argue legalizing prostitution would result in a greater tax base, increased protection for prostitutes, cost reductions from less criminal arrests related to prostitution, and a reduction in the number of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among both prostitutes and those who patronize them. As Barbara Johnson (2003), a lawyer running for political office, argues "Since

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Category: Government - L