As I mentioned in another thread, in preparation for starting college, I've opted to read the highly regarded tip book The Naked Roommate. Naturally, some of the tips in the book pertain to alcohol, as it is the first time that many people have easy access to it, meaning that many people abuse it in a dangerous fashion. The author therefore cautions against engaging in drunk sex, and essentially warns women to be vigilant against "date rape". But as I read the tip, it struck me what an absurd notion it is.
Rape is wrong, and I don't think any rational individual would dare argue otherwise, excluding prison rape faced by violent scumbags in jail. But is "date rape" really rape? I don't believe so. Sure, it might not be a popular sentiment, but I believe it needs to be said. Rape involves a non-consenting party being sexually assaulted. The victim is aware of what is going on, and expresses an objection to it. They are in a sound state of mind, and reject the advances of another person, who ignores this and continues anyway. "Date rape" is quite a bit different. In it, the supposed victim does consent to the act, and merely regrets it later. The idea is that their state of mind was altered, and their judgement was impaired, thereby preventing them from acting in accordance with what is typical of them, rendering it impossible for the person to give their consent. But I don't buy that one bit. Coercion, blackmail, or abuse is not used. The person still issues consent of their own free will, and are making decisions influenced solely by their own indiscretions. They chose to drink, knowing full well what can come of it, and then in a drunk stupor, issued consent that they might otherwise withhold. In other words, it is their own fault that their inhibitions were lowered, and absent of any force or threats being used, they granted permission for the act to take place. As far as I'm concerned, "date rape" is just a way to absolve irresponsible drinkers of personal responsibility, in keeping with said trend in US law. I would therefore suggest that such laws be repealed.
(In case it wasn't clear, I am not including those who were slipped roofies or other such drugs without their knowledge. In that case, rape charges should still be brought. However, that is often not the case, with inexperienced drinkers merely seeking an excuse. Those cases are bullshit, and must be halted.)




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