The available data about pornography consumption and rape rates in the United States seem to rule out a causal relationship, at least with respect to pornography availability causing an increase in the incidence of rape. In fact, crime in general and rape specifically, has decreased substantially for the last 20 years. Concurrently, availability of pornography has increased steadily in the last 20 years. These data give the impression of a catharsis effect; that exposure to pornography may actually provide a means to alleviate sexual aggression. The effects of pornography, whether violent or nonviolent, on sexual aggression have been debated for decades. This review examines the data on pornography and sexual assault. Figure and references