2012 U.S. Presidential Election

[Roy Karrde]

I rarely visit this thread because it's usually dominated by Roy and Dark Sage, but I've been keeping up on the last few posts, and although I'm several replies behind the curve (for which I apologize), there's something I've been meaning to ask. Roy, perhaps you can enlighten me on the difference between "rape" and "forcible rape"?

I ask this because you've made a point of highlighting the term in bold text (twice). I have difficulty recognizing a difference. Rape is, by definition, "the unlawful compelling of a person through physical force or duress to have sexual intercourse." I don't understand the need for a modifier in front of the word. It leads me to think there are people out there who believe it's possible for rape to be a consensual act, which I personally believe is preposterous.

I wouldn't ask, except I've seen the term here and there, and it seems those introducing it in conversation (and Congress) are reluctant to expand on its definition.

Forced Rape is merely a legal term to differentiate itself with Statutory Rape, which can be concentual but still considered rape by law because they are underage.

[mattbcl]

Forced Rape is merely a legal term to differentiate itself with Statutory Rape, which can be concentual but still considered rape by law because they are underage.

Ah. Then litigators are attempting to carve out an exception specifically for non-consentual sex. I wish they would make it as clear as you just did!