How the internet normalised extreme porn - and shaped male desire

In France, a shocking trial has captured the attention of many women and raised serious questions about male behavior and consent. The case involved Gisèle Pelicot, whose husband secretly drugged her and invited men he met online to have sex with her while he filmed the acts. This horrifying situation has left many women feeling disturbed and anxious about the nature of male desire. As the trial unfolded, women from various walks of life discussed the details, trying to comprehend how such a betrayal could occur within a marriage. One woman in her 30s expressed her horror, stating that she needed time away from men, even her fiancé, after learning about the case. Another woman, close in age to Gisèle, reflected on the unsettling thoughts about the men in her life, including her husband and sons. The trial has changed how many women view men, and they hope it will also prompt men to reflect on their own actions. The case raises critical questions about the origins of such violent behavior and whether these men truly understood that sex without consent is rape. The internet has played a significant role in this case, as it provided a platform for the husband to connect with men who shared his disturbing fantasies. The website he used was unregulated, allowing individuals to find others with similar sexual interests without any restrictions. A lawyer for Gisèle likened the site to a 'murder weapon,' arguing that without it, the case would not have escalated to such extreme levels. The internet has not only facilitated these heinous acts but has also contributed to changing societal attitudes towards sex. The shift from traditional adult magazines to modern pornographic websites has expanded the boundaries of what is considered acceptable. Many young people now have different expectations about sex due to the content they consume online. A recent survey revealed that a significant number of men watch porn regularly, and some young women feel pressured to conform to the desires of their male partners, even if it makes them uncomfortable. This raises important questions about the nature of consent and whether it is truly understood in today's society. The Pelicot case serves as a stark reminder of the need for open discussions about these issues and the importance of recognizing the difference between consensual and non-consensual acts.