Introduction

Dave Pickoff/Associated Press

Even the critics who say pornography is predictable would have to acknowledge some surprises this year. An author argued that consumers’ lust for pornography led to world-changing innovations like the Internet. And H.I.V. experts have called the industry a strangely effective model for reducing the risk of promiscuous sex — even without condoms, which L.A. County now requires.

But neither of these claims will silence the two loudest criticisms of pornography: that it exploits performers and that it rewires the minds of the women, men and adolescents who watch it.

Is pornography a social ill? Or are there benefits to be recognized, if it creates rewarding work and offers entertainment, education and inspiration?