Sociology

In this Discussion, we address the concept of “Rape Culture” in the United States and internationally. This topic is sensitive and examines aspects of rape culture from a feminist critique. Please explore this topic with a sociological perspective, an open mind, and maturity. Be aware that this topic may be difficult for other students to discuss and be mindful of your comments.

Video assigned to the discussion essay:

TEDx Talks. (2014, February 5). Your vagina is not a car: Clementine Ford at TEDxSouthBankWomen. [Video file]. Retrieved from youtube.com/watch?v=ATISgVUKetI]

Answer the following questions
1. After watching the presentation provided by Clementine Ford and conducting additional research, provide your own definition/explanation of rape culture.

2. Identify and share an example (or examples) of rape culture found in various forms of media such as TV, advertising, movies, music, etc.

3.Were you familiar with this concept before this module?

4.What are some related consequences of rape culture?

5.How can the prevalence of rape culture be eliminated?

ANSWER

Rape Culture

Q1. After watching the presentation provided by Clementine Ford and conducting additional research, provide your own definition/explanation of rape culture.

Rape culture is the social normalization of sexual violence. Rape culture is whereby society blames and shames the victims of rape. The law diminishes the rape, and the victim is blamed for what happened to them. For example, people might say, “she was raped because she went with a man to the house,” “she was raped because she was walking through a dark alley.” All these statements are trying to avoid the real issue and make the victim feel responsible for being raped. Rape culture is therefore diminishing the seriousness of rape and blaming and shaming rape victims.

Q2.  Identify and share an example (or examples) of rape culture found in various forms of media such as TV, advertising, movies, music, etc.

Language is deeply embedded in culture, and thus words used especially by the media shape daily reality.  Examples of words that can affirm rape are she was dressed like a slut, she was asking for it, and many more. It is also embedded in the music where rape is glorified, and women are objectified. Phrases like “I know you want it” fuel the objectification and lead to people not asking for consent.

Q3. Were you familiar with this concept before this module?

Yes, I was familiar with the concept of rape culture before this module. This is because rape has existed since we were born, and women are taught to take care of themselves or else they will be raped. Women that get raped are accused of being flirty and putting themselves in compromising situations instead of addressing the real issue where people are taught to respect each other.

Q4. What are some related consequences of rape culture?

Rape culture leads to the justification of sexual aggression. It makes the victim feel like they are responsible for their misfortune. It also leads to victims not coming out and keeping the sexual harassment to themselves. It can lead to increased cases of mental illness.

Q5. How can the prevalence of rape culture be eliminated?

Rape culture can be eliminated if people openly talk about the causes of rape and address them. There should be zero-tolerance rules on sexual harassment, and all spaces should be safe spaces. Victim-blaming should also be stopped, and rapists should be prosecuted. The media should also be careful about perpetuating and enabling rapists by shaming the victims.

References

Ford, C. (2014). Your Vagina is Not a Car: Clementine Ford at TEDx South Bank Women. https://youtu.be/ATISgVUKetI