Bodies for Sale, Souls for Rent: A Marxist Perspective on the Commodification of Bodies and Souls. - A Study on "Sex Workers"

Abstract

Sex workers are often criminalized and viewed as offenders rather than recognized as workers in need of protection and support. Trapped within societal constructs of virginity and chastity, they face significant physical and mental health risks, exacerbated by marginalization and inadequate access to healthcare. This research critically examines the exploitation and alienation of sex workers within capitalist society, drawing on Marx's theory of labor exploitation. The study utilizes autobiographical accounts, such as those of Nalini Jameela, a sex worker from Kerala, to uncover the vulnerabilities within this community. It also explores how occupational diseases, like PTSD, may contribute to criminal behavior, perpetuating a cycle of violence. Through a newly developed framework based on primary data and a mixed-methods approach, this research compares sex workers to the labor class and mainstream society to capitalists, highlighting the systemic commodification and marginalization of sex work. Primary data were collected through surveys of the general public and college students to understand societal attitudes toward sex work. Secondary data were analyzed using the Taguchi sampling method, providing an in-depth examination of sex workers' experiences and optimizing data variation while minimizing case numbers. The study offers insights into prevention strategies to mitigate the health risks and social disadvantages faced by sex workers.