Dr. Bernadette Barton publishes book on sex industry

Dr. Bernadette Barton, professor of sociology and director of gender studies at Morehead State University, has released a book examining the nature of today's sex work industry.

Barton, along with Dr. Barbara G. Brents, professor of sociology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and Angela Jones, professor of women, gender, and sexuality studies at Stony Brook University, served as editors for "Sex Work Today: Erotic Labor in the 21st Century" published through New York University Press. The book's release date is Tuesday, Nov. 19, and CoffeeTree Books, located at 159 E. Main St., will host a discussion and book signing for Barton's book at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19.

"Sex Work Today" features 31 original essays from sex workers, researchers, activists, and advocates. In addition to providing a lens for understanding contemporary labor dynamics and formerly ignored aspects of the sex industry, it is also the first compilation of research on new forms of digital sex.

"As with many industries, discrimination, exploitation, and inequality persist in sex work. Yet, it also offers autonomy, job satisfaction, and even pleasurable experiences for those involved," Barton said. "'Sex Work Today' explores these contradictions, offering an intimate look at the benefits and challenges of sex work across geographic contexts."

Barton is also the author of 2021's "Pornification of America: How Raunch Culture is Ruining Our Society," 2017's "Stripped: More Stories from Exotic Dancers," and 2014's "Pray the Gay Away: The Extraordinary Lives of Bible Belt Gays."

Dr. Bernadette Barton can be reached at b.barton@moreheadstate.edu or 606-783-2710.

Learn more about programs in the Department of Social Work, Sociology & Criminology by emailing Department Chair Dr. Connie Hardesty at c.hardesty@moreheadstate.edu or calling 606-783-2273.