ABSTRACT
This chapter presents and evaluates the common arguments for either full decriminalization or legalization of prostitution. It provides an overview and analysis of the historical conditions of prostitution as structured by gender inequality. Ultimately, it is argued that prostitution harms women, undermines sex equality, and is inconsistent with full democratic equality for women. An alternative model, in which persons in prostitution are decriminalized and buyers and third parties are criminalized, known as “the Nordic Model,” or “the equality model” is defended.
