Journalist Sarah Koldehoff analyzes the digital phenomenon of unsolicited penis pictures in her essay. Almost every second woman between 16 and 24 has been affected by such images. She calls for recognizing them as a form of sexualized violence.
In an era where satellites are launched into space and high-performance computers fit into every palm, penis pictures are sent via digital platforms. So-called dick pics have drawn increasing criticism in recent years. Journalist Sarah Koldehoff has clicked through countless such images and explains this phenomenon in her essay.
Almost every second woman between 16 and 24 years old has already been affected by unsolicited images of erect genitals. Koldehoff emphasizes that consensual and unsolicited images must be distinguished. A prudish sexual morality is not her concern. Instead, her text reads as a call to treat such images as what they are: a form of sexualized violence, punishable under Section 184 of the Criminal Code.
The author warns against the frequently practiced downplaying and calls not to join in. Her essay highlights how algorithm-driven platforms facilitate global communication but are misused. Koldehoff's work is based on her engagement with the topic and aims at better understanding to protect those affected.