Sexual Mortal Sin

[Guest Guest]

I was wondering if looking at pornography is the same as having sex. If so or if not, could it be a mortal sin?

[Pio Nono]

JMJ
6/9 - St. Ephrem the Syrian

No, looking at pornography is not the same as having sex with someone. However, willingly looking at it is still mortally sinful, as Our Lord said that even looking at a woman lustfully denotes an act of lust.

The problem with pornography is not that it shows too much - according to the Holy Father, the problem with pornography is that it doesn't show enough. When one views pornography, one stops at the purely physical aspect of the other person, thus using their body as nothing more than a tool for sexual pleasure. However, John Paul's "Personalistic Principle" (the human person is the kind of thing whose only proper response is love) tells us that, since the body is a part of the person, it cannot be used - it must be loved. Pornography encourages use, not love.

In addition, the habitual viewing of pornography in a household will always destroy the family. But that is a discussion for another time. Hope this helps.

Yours,
Pio Nono