Opinions on the Mark Foley scandal

[nminusone]

A few people on my flist have linked to and/or written thoughtful things about the Mark Foley scandal. I don't think anyone is defending Foley's behavior, but a number of people are upset by and uncomfortable with how the media have handled this story.

scherzoid isn't sure what offends him the most about the Mark Foley scandal - there are just too many

Comments

You've got that right!

[fabucat]

No Foley isn't a pedophile, he's a hebephile. That's someone who goes after teens. Also, he was in a position of power and he was bothering these youngsters.

I've heard that Denny Hastert is blaming the Democrats and is saying that Dean and Pelosi will be investigated for not letting everyone know once they knew it! As if they knew it.

Re: You've got that right!

[geekchick]

Perhaps he's been watching too much Faux News, which has identified Foley as a Democrat more than once. ;)

[anotheranon]

I've been following this story distantly, and like you I wish I could say this surprised me. Hanne Blank I think makes some interesting points about our fears about adolescent sexuality, yet never lets Foley off the hook for his bad behavior.

I'd also add to your linkage this post from Ornicus that describes how the conservative shame and trauma about sex may actually be what perpetuates behavior like Foley's, NOT the liberal tolerant and mature attitude.