There is no effect of alcohol abuse more devastating than resultant acts of violence against women. Even though the influence of alcohol is not present in every instance of sexual harassment, assault, and date/acquaintance or gang rape, in most cases intoxication is a significant contributing factor.

At Sigma Nu, we make no mistake about it! Rape is a heinous crime. Not only are such abhorrent sexual abuses against the law of the land, they are also against moral law, a law implicit in the philosophical underpinnings of the Legion of Honor. Any amount of rationalization will not negate that hard truth. You will hear on MTSU's campus today that many do not understand what is rape and what is not. They say, "That's where the problem begins" and suggest "Some men erroneously think that when a woman has agreed to be with him in his room or in some other secluded place, she inherently agrees to a sexual encounter." Be aware, once and for all, that a woman has a right (indeed a responsibility) to refuse, and should have to say "No" only once. MTSU officials will tell you, "Don't make the situation confrontational. We take her word for it. If she is too intoxicated to make a responsible decision, then it's up to us to abstain." The civil and criminal courts tend to agree.

Men who cajole women, or force themselves on them, exhibit the lowest form of wuss-like behavior. They leave no question about their lack of self-control, immaturity, mindlessness, or being a slave to the ill-fated macho "score all you can" fallacy. They are not honorable men, and clearly not Sigma Nu material. They may need professional counseling and, if that fails, incarceration.

Many a male college student has paid the penalty of being accused of rape — endured the humiliation of a grueling court trial, heavy fines, and even jail sentences. His life, not to mention that of his hapless victim, is destroyed. We don't let this happen to us. Our parents and MTSU expects more from us. The freedoms we enjoy at college today introduce a moral challenge. Do self-interests and instant biological gratification supersede responsibility and compassion for others? Every Sigma Nu must address that question when deciding whether one is a "Gentleman of Honor" or an unrestrained boy, even a criminal.

By avoiding an illegal act we may regret the rest of our life, we will avoid having to struggle with the moral issue as well.

It's The Law Resources

• It's The Law - Introduction
• The Achilles Heel
• No Man Is Above The Law
• Juvenile Behavior
• The Weaker Sex Is No More
• A Life We Risk Could Be Our Own
• Where Do Women Fit In?
• Where Do Men Fit In?
• Little Sister Programs
• On Hazing

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