opinion

‘It’s Like the State Entering our Bedrooms and Minds’

The quote comes from a recently published editorial in Scotland's Sunday Herald, written by Brian McNair, a professor of journalism and communication at the University of Strathclyde, and the author of Striptease Culture (Routledge, 2002) and Mediated Sex (Arnold, 1996).

He's upset that hoary old U.K. has decided to enact an The Obscene Publications Act, which outlaws the possession of "extreme pornography," defined as images which portray "in an explicit and realistic way" acts that "threaten a person's life", or that could likely result in "serious injury to a person's anus, breasts or genitals."

Yes, it is somewhat ironic that England, Orwell's home and the country in which 1984 is set, has chosen to pass such a law, though considering the number of security cameras throughout the country, this action can hardly be seen as a first step toward taking "the ‘thought police’ out of the realm of fiction." The nation long since started down that road.

So it's not like the state is entering your mind, mate; it is entering your mind, mucking around to find our what you're up to and into, then passing judgment on you, your mind, your behavior and all the other stuff that makes up your sense of self, and then maybe throwing you into jail.

God save the Queen.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

profile

Sophia Locke Talks Second Acts and Self-Love

Sophia Locke has the kind of presence that instantly makes you want to lean in. She’s confident, effortlessly glamorous and exudes sincerity. Chatting with her feels like catching up over lattes with your best friend — who happens to casually drop that she’s filming three Adult Time features next month.

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

The Hidden Cost of Letting Retail Define Pleasure Brands

Not long ago, spotting vibrators and lubricants at a national chain like Target or CVS might have raised eyebrows. Now, it’s almost expected.

Rin Musick ·
profile

Reese Rideout Looks Back on a Career Written in Stardust

With his sculpted features and leading-man charisma, Reese Rideout looks like he would be at home in a Marvel blockbuster — or at least a stylish slasher flick where he plays the crafty guy who makes it all the way to the final act.

Jackie Backman ·
profile

WIA Profile: Kelsey Harris

At sister distribution brands Nalpac and Entrenue, one woman is in charge of leading customers in the right direction: Director of Sales Kelsey Harris. Since Michigan-based Nalpac took the reins of Arizona’s Entrenue, Harris has led both sales teams from her home base in Oakland County, Michigan.

Women in Adult ·
opinion

How AI Helps Creators Focus More on Creating

Being a content creator today is about a lot more than just content. It’s about marketing, scheduling, analytics and writing — a lot of writing. Whether it’s sexy captions, subscriber newsletters or the perfect social post, words matter.

Megan Stokes ·
opinion

The Art of Faceless Brand Building

When I first began working as a content creator on streaming platforms, I made a conscious choice to take an unconventional path. I decided I would always keep part of my face off-camera: I don’t show my eyes. Instead, I rely on a smile, a gesture and the overall atmosphere.

Pussylovekate ·
opinion

Rebranding Sexual Wellness Through a Self-Care Approach

As most of us in the industry already know, sexual wellness remains the black sheep of self-care. Discussions about wellness glorify meditation apps, skincare routines and workout regimens — but mention masturbation or using a sex toy, and most people shy away from the topic.

Hail Groo ·
profile

WIA Profile: Leah Koons

If you’ve been to an industry event lately, odds are you’ve heard Leah Koons even before you’ve seen her. As Fansly’s director of marketing, Koons helps steer one of the fastest-growing creator platforms on the web.

Women in Adult ·
opinion

Why Sex Toy Innovation Isn't What Shoppers Want Right Now

During my first year in the industry, the luxury vibrator on shelves was LELO’s Gigi, priced at $109. It was made with high-quality silicone, boasted an ergonomic design, a travel lock and a warranty. Soon after, Je Joue released its first product, SaSi, which employed “rolling ball” movements to simulate oral sex.

Sarah Tomchesson ·
opinion

What France's New Law Means for Age Verification Worldwide

When France implemented its Security and Regulation of the Digital Space (SREN) law on April 11, it marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing global debate surrounding online safety and access to adult content.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
Show More