Rep. Todd Akin (R-MO) has brought to light an important debate in the U.S. Senate rate by expressing his view that women who face “legitimate rape” cannot become pregnant.
He has clarified that to mean that he meant to say “forcible” rather than “legitimate”. Of course, that makes perfect sense. “Forcible” rape is completely different that the various kinds of optional rape that are so common.
You might be familiar with the following examples of optional rape:
- I’d rather you didn’t rape me but I haven’t taken a self-defense class.
- He smacked me around and made me have sex with him but I didn’t need a blood transfusion so I’m not sure it counts.
- I wasn’t in the mood but I couldn’t articulate that due to the drugs he put in my drink
- I’m not legally considered capable of making an adult decision but you are. But, let’s overlook that in this case, even though I can’t vote, rent an apartment, buy alcohol or perform any other number of adult functions.
- We have a passing acquaintance so I have more or less given some of my consent.
- I’m not in the mood but I’m not wearing a burqa so really, how can I really complain?
- I am very embarrassed about the whole thing and don’t want to tell anyone so it can’t possibly count.
- Nothing tore.
- He didn’t use a weapon.
- I am the idiot who left my drink unattended.
- I was wearing a miniskirt when I went to that kegger.
- I’ve had consensual sex before so really, I’ve given my consent to all future sexual encounters.
I am probably forgetting some, so please feel free to add any I have missed.
