Debating Porn (Again): What Is Obscene Anyway?

"Should there be an obscenity law that outlaws a product that is made with informed adult consent with no laws being broken, and that is increasingly distributed and consumed in complete privacy?"

You can probably guess what our answer is to that question, but apparently some folks still think this is a matter of some debate. That's why the Los Angeles Times threw together a little point-counterpoint between associate professor of First Amendment law Barry McDonald and indicted smutographer John Stagliano. It isn't a debate so much as is it Barry offering up such proof for the value of obscenity laws as, "Because I said so," and John helpfully pointing out that America isn't supposed to work that way. Of course, Stagliano is facing up to 39 years in prison because of these laws, so he's understandably a little touchy about the subject. Maybe next time the lawyer will remember to mention the actual law.

· "Stuff so raunchy, it's illegal" (latimes.com)