Your Brain on Porn: Internet Pornography and the Emerging Science of Addiction is the first book I have read about the damaging effect of internet pornography, and remains the best book on the science of addiction. In the last few years we have seen several books published on addiction, dopamine, and social media addiction but the foundational insights to the science of addiction were already highlighted in this work published in 2014.
The advent of internet in the 2000s have brought about proliferation of internet pornography. At that time the danger of pornography is not known, in fact the mainstream media often painted it as healthy outlet. For instance, A Harvard study that showed frequent ejaculation lowers the risk of prostate cancer is often cited by proponents to buttress their notion that masturbation is healthy.
Unfortunately for many, the supposed benefits did not align with their personal experiences. In 2011, a community-driven movement called Nofap emerged in response. Originating from the slang term “fap” from male masturbation, NoFap advocates for abstinence from both pornography and masturbation. This movement has since grown significantly over the years, with its official subreddit now boasting over 1.2 million members. This community often highlights the danger of excess pornographic consumption, and offers a support system for those struggling to overcome the addiction.
If you’re curious about the origins of this movement or want to understand the addictive nature of internet pornography, this 2014 book on pornography and addiction provides a scientific basis for understanding the subtle, yet profound damage pornography can cause. It’s a must-read.
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