The term "selling out" refers to accusing another person of compromising their beliefs for financial gain, often used negatively when referring to artists or celebrities who change their work to suit mainstream tastes. In recent years, this has been a common criticism directed towards erotic influencers on social media platforms such as OnlyFans.
Is it possible that these accusations may stem from deeper, unconscious anxieties about money, sexuality, and power dynamics? Let's explore this possibility further.
One potential source of anxiety around selling out could be related to feelings of shame or guilt associated with enjoying erotic material. Many people may feel ashamed of their own desires and preferences, and may project those onto others who openly share them online. Seeing someone else making money off of something they themselves find embarrassing can trigger strong emotional reactions. These feelings are not necessarily conscious but still affect behavior subconsciously.
Another possible explanation for the selling out critique is that it allows the accuser to maintain a sense of superiority over the accused. By labeling the other person as "not genuine," the accuser feels more legitimate in their own choices. This can be especially true for younger generations who have grown up in an environment where sex work is stigmatized and taboo. Accusations of selling out serve as a way to reinforce existing norms without having to confront their own biases directly.
There may also be some fear of sexual competition underlying the selling out critique. In a world where pornography is easily accessible and abundant, many people feel pressure to distinguish themselves by being unique or different. Accusing someone of selling out serves as a way to create distance between oneself and the accused, while also reinforcing societal expectations around what counts as acceptable sexual expression.
Accusations of selling out against erotic influencers may reflect deeper, unconscious anxieties about sex, power dynamics, and personal identity. It's important for us to examine these criticisms carefully and question our assumptions about what constitutes authenticity and success.
What unconscious anxieties are projected into accusations of “selling out” against erotic influencers?
The accusation of "selling out" is often directed towards erotic influencers as a way for others to project their own insecurities and doubts about their sexuality onto them. These individuals may feel threatened by the success and popularity of the influencer, and therefore accuse them of compromising their values or integrity for financial gain.