Definition of obscenity

The word "obscenity" originated in the late 19th century, stemming from the Latin word "obscenus," meaning "shameful" or "disgraceful." In English law, obscenity referred to material that was considered to be lewd or indecent and likely to corrupt public morality. The concept of obscenity emerged as a result of the tremendous social and cultural changes occurring during the Victorian era, including rapid urbanization, industrialization, and the rise of mass media. In 1857, the British Parliament expanded censorship laws to cover materials deemed obscene, which paved the way for similar legislation in other countries, such as the United States. In both England and America, the legislation aimed to protect the morality of the general population, particularly children, by prohibiting the sale and distribution of materials considered lewd or pornographic. Over time, the interpretation and application of obscenity laws have sparked controversy and debate, as different societies have grappled with questions of artistic freedom, censorship, and cultural values. However, the origin of the word "obscenity" remains rooted in the notion of moral turpitude and sexual explicitness, reflecting both the historical context in which it emerged and its enduring legacy in contemporary society.