Few things are truly universal. Porn has transformed over the past few decades, due to the availability of the internet and faster web connections. It is also becoming more immersive than ever before. Take virtual reality. Earlier this year, researchers from Newcastle University in the UK pointed out that VR changes the experience of porn from detached observer to protagonist. They warned that this has the potential to blur the line between reality and fantasy, perhaps damaging relationships and encouraging harmful behaviour.

This article originally appeared on AlterNet. What, if any, are the ways that porn is good for us? I kid, I kid. Can we really say that porn is the cause of this objectification? Is it leading to more widespread abuse? Or is something deeper at play? He concluded, "If anything, there is an inverse causal relationship between an increase in pornography and sex crimes.

Photographer: Barbara Nitke. There is an enormous divide between perspectives on porn in our society. Some say it is perfectly healthy and natural -- that it can be a learning experience, helping you to learn your own likes and dislikes and those of your partner. Some couples use it to facilitate intercourse in an exciting way. It can even help to relieve stress when no available lovers are on our radar.

Porn has got a bit a bad rep over the years. Most recently, it has been blamed for fueling sexual addiction by researchers by the University of Cambridge. Luckily, other research suggests that it might not be as bad you think.