Neoliberalism is an economic philosophy that promotes privatization, free markets, and deregulation. It has influenced many aspects of life, including sexuality. This essay will explore how neoliberalism commodifies sexuality and the transformations that occur in the meaning of intimacy, desire, and erotic labor under market logic.
The concept of "intimacy" involves closeness, trust, and emotional connection between people. Neoliberalism's emphasis on individualism and personal responsibility means that intimate relationships are often seen as a private affair rather than a public good. As such, they have become increasingly commodified, with individuals seeking to monetize their relationships through dating apps, paid companionship, and other forms of commercialized romance. The rise of online pornography also reflects this trend, as viewers can consume it without engaging with real human beings or forming deep connections.
Desire is another aspect of sexuality that has been transformed by neoliberalism. Under traditional capitalist economics, workers were expected to suppress their desires for pleasure and leisure, while capitalists pursued profits.
Neoliberalism encourages both parties to prioritize self-interest and seek fulfillment, leading to a culture where sexual satisfaction is viewed as a commodity to be bought and sold. Consumerism drives the search for new experiences and novelty, even at the expense of long-term commitments.
Erotic labor refers to work that requires physical contact or sensual performance, like stripping, escorting, or massage therapy. In the past, these occupations were considered demeaning, but now they are legitimized as part of the sex industry. Workers may face exploitation from employers who take advantage of the stigma surrounding their jobs and pay them low wages. Women in particular are vulnerable to objectification and mistreatment, while men face social pressure to conform to hypermasculine standards. Neoliberalism's emphasis on competition and individual achievement creates an environment where erotic labor is seen as a way to succeed financially rather than a form of personal expression.
Neoliberalism commodifies sexuality by reframing intimate relationships as commercial transactions and transforming desire into a quest for instant gratification. It also normalizes and legitimizes forms of erotic labor that were once taboo, often at the cost of workers' dignity and wellbeing. These transformations have created a complex, unequal landscape of sexual relations, where some individuals benefit from the marketization of pleasure while others suffer its consequences.
How does neoliberalism commodify sexuality, and what transformations occur in the meaning of intimacy, desire, and erotic labor under market logic?
Neoliberalism has transformed how sex is perceived in modern society. It has shifted from being considered as something that is personal between two individuals to being seen as a product that can be sold and bought for financial gain. This transformation has led to the commodification of sex, where it is viewed as a consumer good rather than an expression of love and affection.