Mr. Madden's article misses the real culprit.

Dear Editor:

Charles Madden's column in Thursday's edition of the DE is clearly motivated by a positive goal - to reduce the incidence of rape. However, the article does not seem to point the finger where it really should be pointed - at men. Nearly all rapes are committed by men and are acts of violence. If a woman is wearing a skirt, as I believe was mentioned in the article, or any other clothing that she wishes to wear in our "free" country, this should have no bearing at all on whether she is raped or not. Indeed, this is a travesty that hits too close to the idea that the woman was somehow "asking for it" (an archaic and violent thought) and also may imply that men are barbarians who cannot control themselves. Sure, a lot of men cannot control themselves, which is one reason why a lot of the world's social and environmental systems are a mess. But Mr. Madden's article misses the real culprit.

Certainly, social conditions create a climate that can foster violence. It pays to be safe, regardless of gender. Yet most men I know don't think twice about walking around at night by themselves.

Most women I know do think twice and have to be on their guard.

Groups like Brotherpeace ("breaking the silence to end men's violence") exist to help men deal with their issues BEFORE they turn into violence. Brotherpeace has been active in the Carbondale area through the Women's Center. If anyone reading this is a man who has such issues, be a real man and seek help. For when you are truly fulfilling your part in the grand puzzle of human society, the contribution you make is badly needed.

Curt Wilson

PSO network administrator, civil service

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