2 ms·
No one ever deserves to get raped (except perhaps a rapist, but that's another debate). At the same time, someone who gets drunk by themselves in a bad part of
by lukifer 16y ago
No one ever deserves to get raped (except perhaps a rapist, but that's another debate).
At the same time, someone who gets drunk by themselves in a bad part of town has to take responsibility for that choice, that it's more likely to lead to getting mugged/stabbed/raped, etc. That does not mean the event is their fault, because no event has a singular cause. Moreover, accepting a small piece of that responsibility does not in any way absolve the transgressor, nor does it imply that the victim "deserved" it.
Let's take a less visceral example: the tires on my car are somewhat worn, but not yet dangerously bald. My wife is driving on a rainy day, slowing down for the road conditions, but not by very much. The car skids and crashes into a tree, resulting in only minor injuries but a totaled car.
Is it my fault for not being more vigilant on the tires? Her fault for not driving slow enough? No one's fault, just an unfortunate act of God?
The answer to all three questions is "yes". Many couples would argue until they're blue in the face over who is at fault, until one gives up and backs down. The reality is that we both contributed to the situation, which potentially could have happened anyway. Acknowledging our personal contributions does not absolve the other party of theirs, nor does it mean the event is not simply an unlucky happenstance of the wrong time and place.