This course provides you with an understanding of prostitution from sociological and legal angles. It introduces you to basic gender political discussions surrounding prostitution and explores the ways in which prostitution reflects and shapes gender norms and social hierarchies. We study the sex trade in different parts of the world, but focus on a comparison between Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands as they have radical, but different, approaches to prostitution.
Ph.D., Sociology and gender studies, University of Copenhagen 2016. Ph.D fellow, Department of Sociology, University of Copenhagen 2012-15. DIS Faculty 2015-2018. Postdoc at Department for the Study of Culture, University of Southern Denmark 2017-2020. Postdoc at Department for Culture and Learning, Aalborg University in Copenhagen 2020-2021. Postdoc at the Sociology Department, University of Copenhagen 2021-2024. With DIS since 2024.
Long Study Tour
About this tour
Amsterdam is a dynamic city full of culture, natural beauty, and very liberal attitudes. A thriving red light district blends effortlessly into the cityscape of tree-lined canals, quaint cafes, and bustling bike lanes. Prostitution is legal in both Denmark and The Netherlands, but the approaches to prostitution are different, and are in stark contrast to the general approach in the U.S. Through visits to NGOs and meetings with Dutch sex workers, you will have plenty of opportunities to learn, ask questions, explore differences, and gain insight into the Dutch perspective toward prostitution and trafficking, as well as challenge your perceptions about prostitution.
The academic visits are supplemented with cultural visits to help you learn more about Dutch history and culture, as well as give you a more well-rounded understanding of the communities in which you are studying. In the past, cultural visits have included touring the Anne Frank House, sailing through the city’s canals, and enjoying traditional Dutch cuisine.
Learning outcomes
Compare and contrast the societal differences in legalized and criminalized prostitution in the Netherlands, U.S., Denmark, and Sweden
Understand the Dutch approach towards prostitution and trafficking
Gain new insights into the lives of sex workers in Europe
Possible activities
Scavenger hunt of the Jordaan neighborhood
Getting a guided tour of Amsterdam’s Red Light District by a former Dutch sex worker, including insight into what it is like to sit in ‘a window’ waiting for customers
Visiting with NGOs that try to influence the authorities on human trafficking, as well a advocate for the human and civil rights of migrant sex workers
Looking for some advice? We’ll support you every step of the way.
