Boswell And Spade Rape Culture

Boswell and Spade examine rape culture or the culture that surrounds and promotes rape. Boswell and Spade examine fraternity lifestyle on college campuses, and how they believe fraternities are prone to higher sexual aggression and a higher acceptance of rape myths. Boswell and Spade believe that sexual aggression is taught in these fraternities where there is a large value placed on social life and recreational activities, such as drinking and drug use. Boswell and Spade explain that men’s sexuality is viewed as natural, uncontrollable and acceptable while a women’s sexuality is seen as shameful. They believe there is an immense double standard in society. To test their assumptions, they evaluated a high-risk fraternity house and a low-risk …show more content…
Men were more likely to treat women disrespectfully when in a group setting than alone, and most men on campus did not understand the idea that a woman cannot make a conscious decision to have sex under the influence. Greeks are more likely to have a higher level of conformity than other social groups, as Greeks feel the need to maintain the reputation of their house. Men in high-risk fraternities viewed women as threats to their brotherhood, therefore reinforcing rape culture, as women were not viewed with respect and all relationships with women were discouraged. Boswell and Spade concluded by recommending that college officials form an environment in which positive gender relations are …show more content…
1994. “Men in Groups: Collective Responsibility for Rape.” Hypatia 9(2): 134-151.

May and Strikwerda argue that male groups and male bonding and socialization have contributed to the prevalence of rape in western societies, and how men should feel responsible for the frequency of rape and should feel the need to counteract sexual violence. Rape should not be seen as a private act and should instead be seen as a crime against humanity as other crimes are. To support their position, May and Strikwerda will examine the four arguments normally used in society to explain why rape occurs. The first argument being that “rape is only the perpetrator’s fault” is examined, May and Strikwerda discuss the Mike Tyson rape conviction that occurred in the early 90’s and how Tyson grew up in a male-dominated society in which Tyson exemplified all of the male stereotypes including aggression. However, the “Boys will be boys” line that is still heard to this day cannot be taken lightly, the group mentality of men that encourage rape and instill negative attitudes towards women may be the driving force. Boys are treated from a young age as if their misbehavior is expected. Most rapists are not shown to be psychologically abnormal from other