Elise Hedemann, CAPPE, Charles Sturt Universiy, presents her proposal on the topic of sexual violence in the West as a cultural phenomenon.

My topic is sexual violence in the West as a cultural phenomenon. I am interested in the cultural causes of sexual violence in societies that are generally considered safe, secure, and comparatively equal for men and women. By cultural causes, I mean the values, attitudes, and behavioural patterns that contribute to the prevalence of sexual violence. I am also interested in how we ought to respond to these cultural causes.

There are three key sections in my argument. First I look at the evidence that much of human behaviour is non-rational and unchosen, and that it can be influenced by our cultural environment. Although many people do not explicitly condone sexist culture, our behaviour can be influenced despite egalitarian beliefs by our cultural surroundings.

Second is the exploration of cultural patterns contributing to sexual violence. Given that culture influences behaviour, sources of culture that promote sexism and violence are of particular concern. Not only am I interested in the ways that violence is directly promoted, but as the ways in which non-violent people create a safe and supportive environment for violent people.

The third section is about different understandings of freedom and responsibility. I believe we need to acknowledge the strong non-rational influences on our behaviour while also making central our ability and responsibility to act in rational ways.

Full proposal available upon request. Contact scott.wisor@anu.edu.au