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#Metoo Debate

July 15, 2020
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#Metoo Debate

Be it resolved, the #MeToo movement has gone too far.

Earlier this year, Tara Reade accused presidential candidate, Joe Biden, of sexually assaulting her while she was working for him as a Senate aide in 1993. The charges of sexual impropriety come at a crucial point in the lead up to the US election on November 3, the first presidential race of the #MeToo era. President Trump has also been accused by numerous women of sexual assault and unwanted touching, allegations that he continues to deny.

Supporters of the #MeToo movement welcome this cultural watershed moment for gender relations. They say the movement is forcing society to rethink traditional power relationships between men and women and provides a check on out of control male entitlement and the silencing of women. Thanks to the #MeToo movement, victims of sexual harassment have finally been given a voice and overdue justice.

For #MeToo’s detractors, the movement has gone too far – such as the case of former Senator Al Franken, who resigned after facing allegations of sexual misconduct which have never been proven in court or investigated by Congress. To the critics of the #MeToo movement, the principle “believe all women” has led to the vilification of innocent men, the perpetuation of a victimhood mentality, and the victory of mob rule over due process and basic fairness. They argue it is time for a rethink of the #MeToo movement by women and men who care about the future of relationships between the sexes.

“#MeToo has allowed women to sit behind keyboards and make a wide spectrum of claims that are not investigated and have the potential to ruin the lives of those accused with absolutely no way to defend themselves.”

– Donna Rotunno

“What we’re looking for in the #MeToo movement is not to hurt all men, but to stop those small numbers of men who prey on people.”

– Jane Manning

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