Famed “Princeton Mom” Susan Patton thinks date rape is an overblown misfortune women can avoid by not getting so drunk or not wearing such revealing clothing. Some other Princeton moms (and dads!) disagree, including can-women-have-it-all writer Anne-Marie Slaughter. Slaughter, philosopher Peter Singer, and novelist Joyce Carol Oates are among the professors and Princeton community members undersigned in an open letter to students stating that they “do not believe that their manner of dress or drinking behavior makes them responsible for unwanted sexual contact” and urging students to feel comfortable seeking help if it happens. It’s hard to think of something more likely to make Patton reconsider her views than the disapproval of Princeton.
