Summary of Michelle Bowdler's Is Rape a Crime?

By IRB Media

Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Book Preview:

#1 The crime of rape is a difficult one to discuss, as it is a violation that leaves its victims scarred for life. To address this issue, we must first understand the role we play in dismissing the experiences of victims of sexual violence.

#2 Rape culture is the subject of many books, essays, and speeches. It is the norm in the United States for men to experience no consequences for these behaviors, whereas those alleging harm pay a much steeper price.

#3 The United States has a history of racism, and it is reflected in the criminal justice system. For example, it was legal for white men to rape enslaved black women, as it was not a crime for them to do so, whereas if a black man raped a white woman, he would be subject to death.

#4 In America, rape is not treated as a crime of brutal violence, but rather a parlor game: his word against hers, regret sex, revenge against a scorned lover.

• Language: English
• Publisher: IRB Media
• Release date: Jun 6, 2022
• ISBN: 9798822532168

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Insights on Michelle Bowdler's Is Rape a Crime?

Contents

Insights from Chapter 1

Insights from Chapter 2

Insights from Chapter 1

#1

The crime of rape is a difficult one to discuss, as it is a violation that leaves its victims scarred for life. To address this issue, we must first understand the role we play in dismissing the experiences of victims of sexual violence.

#2

Rape culture is the subject of many books, essays, and speeches. It is the norm in the United States for men to experience no consequences for these behaviors, whereas those alleging harm pay a much steeper price.

#3

The United States has a history of racism, and it is reflected in the criminal justice system. For example, it was legal for white men to rape enslaved black women, as it was not a crime for them to do so, whereas if a black man raped a white woman, he would be subject to death.

#4

In America, rape is not treated as a crime of brutal violence, but rather a parlor game: his word against hers, regret sex, revenge against a scorned lover.

#5

I spent years trying to find a job after the assault, and eventually ended up working in the public health field. I was able to help thousands of students who were struggling with both their experiences with sexual assault and the secondary pain of being disbelieved.

#6

The book is not a rallying cry for victims to act, but a rebuke of current norms and a plea for change and accountability from law enforcement and legislators.

#7

The ride to the hospital lives in shadow. I look around the police car, and stay as quiet as possible. It is daybreak, and as the sun rises, the cold steel surrounding me slowly illuminates, softening from black to gray.

#8

I was sitting on