Sort of like "hugs", "roses" and "kisses"?
You have to insist on precision in terms in some areas: math and science. You have to guard against manipulation and downright deception in politics and marketing/advertising (as Orwell advises). What is more truthful about "prostitution" than "hobby?"
I could name a couple of differences. For the latter, the people on the outside largely won't recognize the term. That makes it jargon: the same as the terms "Greek" and "Daty."
The second, of course, is the internet and the practices and possibilities it has added. It's not only the sex for pay that's described, it's the reading and writing of reviews, the discussion boards, the chat rooms, the blogs. There's a camaraderie that's international. There's knowledge of other participants.
IMO, subtract all that, and the term "hobby" simply would not exist at all in this context. So neither "prostitution" nor "hobby" are more accurate, but as jargon, hobby is actually more specific in the form of sex for money practiced.
over and over in the "practice of science"! That is what makes me laugh when non-scientists get hold of "scientific fact" or more accurately "theory!" Downright few things are FACT! very few.... why? simply because we don't know what we don't know.... and that makes all the difference in the world.
But I gotta agree - without the essence of GFE, without the internet, and most of all, without the fact that we go on here and discuss with other hobbiests, and with providers, and with the odd wife or SO on occation - well it would look act and smell like prostitution. But with all that - it is not - it is something else - and hobby is as good a term to describe it as would be lagonunshu.
I think using positive language can help change perceptions in society, and while I agree that words are not always definitive or accurate, they do reflect perceptions. I see this as a hobby for the men and a profession for the women. Take the term provider or service provider. There are those who would call me a low-down disgusting sinful whore. Do I feel that way about my work? No.. despite the legal status and judgment passed by some, I feel I am performing a legitimate and much needed service as my profession at this time. So whether someone uses the former term or the latter says a lot about their perceptions of the legal and moral implications of my work. So the term "hobby," while I feel it is accurate in that this is an outlet for stress and a fun "extracurricular" activity, also reflects that we feel it is a valid and legitimate option, and a personal choice, as opposed to something with a morally or socially negative connotation. I think by using positive or neutral language, we can address the real issues head on, rather than getting caught up in subjective good.vs.evil and religion-based fear mongering.
XoXo
Marea
-- Modified on 9/30/2007 12:02:24 PM
You can rare-courtesan me any day Marea. But I usually enjoy it a bit more well-done, and you certainly did well-do me.(LOL) But then again I believe that my doubles partner well-did you too. How's that for positive language?
-- Modified on 9/30/2007 2:03:17 PM
but I call it a fucking shovel. Prostitution and I'm cheating on my wife. I took a vow to not do that. She has lost all interest in sex and I have as much interest in it now as I did 45 years ago when I was still trying to learn how to jerk off!
But if I divorce her it's financial woes for both of us and pain and suffering for the families. What she doesn't know, in this case, isn't hurting her. If she did know she would be hurt a lot, so I'm obviously taking some risk. TER keeps that risk somwhat lower.
But I know I'm doing the wrong thing when considering the promise I made to her. But I also think she's ignoring her promise to be my lover.
Whatever, it's all fucked up.
one that was honored. Make no mistake about it, some should not do this, but some women who do, and who I adore by the way, I am amazed by 1) their intelligence and 2) their belief in themselves and 3) their mental stability and apparent happiness... it is refreshing...
So, if I ruled the world the hobby would be legal
“When a habit begins to cost money, it's called a hobby.”
When you don't have the money, it's an addiction.
And when you're addicted, you're no longer responsible?
it would sure be nice if your group plan would help out. 8o)
An adaptation to the (oft hypocritical) Puritanic culture in which we live. The courtesan has played a key role in history (whether Antony's many lovers or the samurai's Geisha). I am an honorable man who adores his wife, yet who requires this accommodation to resolve the unmet needs of my soul which extend far beyond the simple "release" - the warrior, if you will, comforted by a woman devoted solely to his pleasure, with no need to burden the experience with carpool or laundry.