It would be a sign of society changing if we did finally legalize prostitution. Once it's legal, it doesn't mean your daughter's going to run out and be a ho. The more we sort of bring these things into the light, you bring these hidden vices into the light, the less power they have over our society. You make it legal, it tends to go away.

Thomas Jane’s quote addresses the potential social and legal shift that could come with the legalization of prostitution. He suggests that such a change would be a sign of society evolving and becoming more open-minded, emphasizing that legalization would not necessarily lead to moral decay, such as the fear that daughters would be negatively affected. Jane's argument is that legalizing prostitution would not cause widespread harm, but instead could lead to greater understanding and less stigmatization.

The quote also touches on the idea of bringing hidden vices into the light—suggesting that prostitution, often seen as a taboo subject, would lose its power over society once it is acknowledged and regulated. By making it legal, Jane argues that the issue would no longer be something to hide, and would diminish the mystique and potential harm that often accompanies illegal activities. His perspective challenges the idea that keeping things in the shadows increases their influence.

Jane’s opinion reflects a broader debate on the decriminalization or legalization of sex work, which has been a topic of discussion in many countries. Proponents argue that it could lead to better regulation, safer conditions for those involved in the trade, and a reduction in associated criminal activity. By moving the conversation out of the shadows, society could begin to treat prostitution as a legitimate occupation rather than a stigmatized act, potentially reducing the negative consequences tied to its criminalization.

This view challenges traditional moral judgments and points to the benefits of a more pragmatic, regulated approach to societal issues. Jane suggests that in legalizing prostitution, society could reduce harm, offer protections, and shift toward a more open-minded understanding of the issue, ultimately leading to a more just and progressive society.