cientific studies based on credible empirical evidence do not support the mass hysteria and moral panic that currently surrounds so-called "child pornography." According to several objective research reports, some of which are discussed in the essay linked below, the viewing of this material can be seen as essentially a "thought crime," is most often harmless, and does not always lead to behaviors which are currently considered to be criminal. Many – perhaps most - of those charged with possessing and viewing "child pornography" have never been involved with a child. For an essay discussing this subject published in a reputable scientific journal, see http://www.shfri.net/effects/effects.cgi

Regarding "harm," see http://www.shfri.net/mech/mech.cgi

For a free downloadable 94 page book on these issues which includes voluntary anonymous testimony from now grown former child "actors," see http://www.shfri.net/shfp/beyond/beyond.html