Meaning: The quote "To the moralist prostitution does not consist so much in the fact that the woman sells her body, but rather that she sells it out of wedlock" by Emma Goldman, an activist, encapsulates a provocative perspective on the societal attitudes towards prostitution. Emma Goldman, a prominent anarchist and feminist activist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was known for her radical views on a wide range of social and political issues. This quote reflects her critical stance on the moral judgments often imposed on women who engage in sex work outside of the institution of marriage.

Goldman's assertion challenges the conventional moralist viewpoint that condemns prostitution solely on the grounds of selling one's body for sexual purposes. Instead, she directs attention to the societal stigma associated with women engaging in sex work outside the confines of wedlock. In doing so, she highlights the underlying hypocrisy and double standards prevalent in moralistic attitudes towards prostitution.

The quote underscores the gendered dynamics inherent in the moral condemnation of prostitution. It sheds light on the historical and cultural context in which women's sexuality has been subjected to stringent moral scrutiny, often tied to patriarchal notions of female virtue and purity. By emphasizing the significance of wedlock in the moralist's judgment of prostitution, Goldman draws attention to the control and regulation of women's sexuality within the institution of marriage, as well as the societal ostracism of those who transgress these norms.

Furthermore, Goldman's perspective challenges the traditional understanding of sex work as inherently immoral, reframing the debate to consider the broader social and economic factors that compel individuals, particularly women, to enter the sex trade. Her quote encourages a critical examination of the intersecting power structures, including gender, class, and economic disparity, that shape the experiences of those involved in prostitution.

In the context of Goldman's broader activism, this quote aligns with her advocacy for women's autonomy and agency, challenging the oppressive norms that seek to control and regulate women's bodies and choices. It reflects her commitment to dismantling the moralistic and patriarchal foundations that underpin societal attitudes towards sex work and women's sexuality.

Goldman's quote continues to hold relevance in contemporary discussions surrounding sex work and the rights of individuals involved in the industry. It prompts us to interrogate the moral judgments and societal prejudices that often overshadow the complex realities of those engaged in sex work, and to consider alternative frameworks for understanding and addressing the issues at hand.

In conclusion, Emma Goldman's quote serves as a thought-provoking critique of the moralistic condemnation of prostitution, urging us to question the entrenched biases and double standards that shape societal attitudes towards women's autonomy and sexuality. It invites us to engage in a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of the factors influencing individuals' choices to engage in sex work, and to advocate for the rights and dignity of those involved in the industry.