Diana Russell, interviewed by Ann E. Menasche

In the subsequent viewpoint, feminist and civil rights attorney Ann E. Menasche speaks with Diana Russell, a feminist activist, scholar, and the author of several books about violence against women. Russell contends that pornography— defined as material that endorses the sexual degradation of women—is a significant cause of sexual violence. According to Russell, research shows that pornography provokes some men to have rape fantasies and undermines the inhibitions of men who already have the desire to rape. She maintains that feminists must recognize pornography as a form of discrimination against women and educate the public about the harm pornography does to women’s lives.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Russell, how prevalent is violence against women?
2. As explained by the author...