That’s a pretty effective metaphor. The stained blouse. It elucidates your point rather well that it probably really is more about the unspoken negotiation, and probably even a lot more conscious than I’m giving them credit for, because you are right, if he did it a second time, she would protest and vocalize, albeit probably less aggressively than if it was a peer. In fact, if you could be the NSA and pull up old phone conversations with girlfriends at the time, I wouldn’t be surprised if you hear at least as much social strategery (bush-ism for you there) as you do with the hand wringing and pearl clutching.
Great points. Consider me won over on your argument, and I’d be willing to agree on the statute of limitations, but even though you have a lot more awareness, bureaucratic protection, and less social stigma these days, some of these sociopaths can create an entire culture of control not unlike what cult leaders do. There are a few signs and clues that Cuomo did just that, such as the Clintoneque attempts to damage reputations, or also that intimidation call to that state rep about the nursing home investigation.
And I totally agree with you on the above...