This review of Fraternity Gang Rape: Sex, Brotherhood, and Privilege on Campus is an in-depth look at the issue of sexual assault in college fraternities. With its powerful narrative, rigorous research, and thoughtful analysis, this book offers a comprehensive account of how fraternity culture contributes to the prevalence of sexual violence on campus and how it sustains a culture of privilege and impunity for perpetrators. In addition to analyzing the factors that contribute to fraternity gang rape, author Peggy Reeves Sanday also provides valuable insight into how universities can better protect their students and address the issue of sexual assault. This review will explore the key insights and conclusions of this important book.
The key features of Fraternity Gang Rape are its focus on examining fraternity culture in order to understand the causes of sexual assault on campus and its recommendations for university administrators. The book is divided into three sections: “Unpacking Fraternity Culture”; “Examining Sexual Violence on Campus”; and “Promoting Change.” In the first section, Sanday takes us through an exploration of fraternity culture, including its history, core values, rituals, and social networks. She argues that fraternities have become strongholds where male privilege remains unchecked and rape culture thrives.
In the second section, Sanday looks at how fraternity gang rape has become a problem on campuses across the US. Drawing from extensive interviews with survivors and university personnel, as well as her own experiences as a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, she offers a nuanced understanding of why these types of assaults take place within fraternity houses despite efforts by universities to prevent them. She also examines other forms of sexual violence such as date rape and stalking.
Finally, in the third section, Sanday provides invaluable advice for universities on how they can create safer environments for their students. She emphasizes the importance of engaging with student groups like fraternities in order to foster dialogue around issues such as consent education and bystander intervention. In addition, she outlines specific steps that universities can take to ensure that survivors are supported throughout their healing process.
In conclusion, Fraternity Gang Rape: Sex, Brotherhood, and Privilege on Campus is an essential book for anyone wanting to better understand how fraternity culture contributes to sexual violence on campus or learn more about what universities can do to help prevent these assaults from occurring in the future. It is an invaluable resource for those looking to promote positive change within our colleges and universities.
