R34

R34, short for Rule 34, is an internet adage stating that if something exists, there is porn of it. It is often cited as a concise way to describe the pervasiveness of adult content online and its reach across diverse topics, communities, and media.

Originating in early 2000s internet culture, the concept grew out of the broader “Rules of the Internet” meme. While the exact author is unknown, the idea became widely popular through posts on imageboards and forums such as 4chan, where it spread as a provocative shorthand for the transparency and ubiquity of sexualized material on the web.

Culturally, Rule 34 is used to explain the presence of sexualized content involving a wide range of subjects, including fictional characters, public figures, and niche topics. It has influenced discussions about fan labor, online moderation, content policies, and the design of search filters and platform safeguards. The rule is a heuristic, not a law or formal standard, and it is frequently invoked in memes, commentary, and academic discourse about internet culture and sexuality.

Critics argue that Rule 34 can normalize or trivialize sexual content, raise concerns about copyright and consent, and complicate moderation decisions across platforms. Proponents see it as a reflection of the internet’s freewheeling nature and a reminder of the need for responsible sharing and clear consent.

See also: Rules of the Internet; internet culture; fan labor; online pornography; content moderation.