Rape culture - meaning and definition
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Definition
Rape culture is a term for social attitudes and norms that normalise, excuse or trivialise sexual violence.
At a glance
- Describes attitudes and norms that normalise, excuse or trivialise sexual violence.
- The concept emerged from feminist writing in the 1970s.
- Commonly cited examples include rape jokes and victim blaming.
- The term is debated, with some critics saying it overstates the problem.
- Supporters use it to encourage consent education and bystander action.
In detail
The concept emerged from feminist writing in the 1970s. Examples often cited include jokes about sexual assault, the idea that persistence after a no is romantic, blaming victims, and low rates of accountability for perpetrators.
The term is debated: some critics argue it overstates how much society tolerates violence. Supporters use it to highlight how everyday beliefs shape how survivors are treated, and to encourage education about consent and bystander action.
In a sentence
- Our sociology class discussed rape culture and how jokes can make sexual violence seem normal.
- Treating persistence after a no as romantic is often given as an example of rape culture.
Where the word comes from
The term emerged from second-wave feminist writing and activism in the United States in the 1970s, including a 1975 documentary titled Rape Culture.
Common questions
What are examples of rape culture?
Commonly cited examples include jokes about sexual assault, the idea that persistence after a no is romantic, blaming victims, and low accountability for people who commit sexual violence.
Why is the term controversial?
Some critics argue it overstates how much society tolerates sexual violence. Supporters say it helps explain how everyday beliefs affect how survivors are treated and whether they are believed.