Faculty Publications

Contesting Pornography: Terministic Catharsis And Definitional Argument

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Argumentation and Advocacy

Volume

38

Issue

1

First Page

1

Last Page

17

Abstract

This essay focuses on the debates over the MacKinnon-Dworkin Anti-Pornography Ordinance to explore one instance of definitional argument: the attempt to effect a redefinition. Using Burke's critical matrix of the pentad as a framework, I argue that advocates for a definitional shift created the possibility for a “terministic catharsis” by simultaneously locating pornography in multiple locations on the pentad, highlighting its act/agent/agency functions.

Department

Department of Communication Studies

Original Publication Date

1-1-2001

DOI of published version

10.1080/00028533.2001.11821552

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