Hi Mary Anne,

Did I suggest or even imply I promote or endorse "abstinence only" sex-education?

As a pro-choice consevative (one of the enlightened;-) I also support sex-education in the class room. I believe the basic physiology of anatomical reproduction should be taught by the fifth/sixth grade and the sexual process and relationship material should be taught in eighth grade and up.

I do not believe the teachers should take any real role in promoting sexual activity or dissuading it. A pat "take it up with your parents or a counselor" should suffice when asked for advice or a position on dating.

Mary Anne's is thinking:



"yes...he probably thinks it's time to bring back the 30's pulp romances where out-of-wedlock sex always was rewarded by a baby with two heads and scorn from her former friends and that endless guilt and shame. ;-)"



Sex sells. Lust was dished out - but always the consequences were pointed out as well.

I am glad you came to the same conclusions, I would expect little else.

Regarding the groups...

In any group of people condemning an issue - you can find some who are more stalwart and others who are reactionaries. I find that the media loves to point out the reactionaries so as to leave the general impression that something of value is really being suppressed by the hard right.

As for twelve year olds and being tried as adults. I am against that as well. 17 year olds is another story.

16 is probably the age I would draw up as the minimum for trying severe crimes as an adult.

I don't think 12-16 year olds have the ability to enter into a meaningful relationship with an adult. And any adult should bear the full brunt of the consequences.

A 50 year old and a 12 year old is pedophilia in my book.

An 18 year old and a 14 year old is another story and I expect a judge or prosecutor would show considerable leniency.

As for knowing her inner demons...

Imagine Ms. Levine is invited to speak at many campuses (not unlikely now). How many in attendance do you think will know of her true situation? (and if it is revealed how much do you want to bet the issue of adult responsibility is passed over altogether and it is just portrayed as her exciting "early blooming") How many will leave thinking she is just avante garde in her "new awareness" and "hip" or "uber" for an old broad?

How many will let her words and attempts at self-validation imbalance their own understanding and good judgment?

Probably far too many.

Take care Mary Anne!

SDAI-Tech1