Im confused. People are disgusted because the general law says they need to be over 18, however the NY law says the age of consent is 17, and she consented, so its not breaking the law however now the law doesnt matter and its just about morals? Even though theres plenty of 27 year olds with 48 year old husbands?
If were upset morally, one extra year shouldnt make it morally okay because shes basically the same person with the same maturity, if were upset about the law, he didnt break any laws.
There is no federal age of consent. It's left up to the states.
action52 posted...
My thoughts about adults having sex with people much younger than them is on a spectrum.
15 and under, you're a child predator. I agree that legally it makes sense to punish you more harshly if you target younger children because it does more harm, but I see no need for society to see you as any less scum if you don't. You're still a child predator, just like a second degree murderer is still a murderer.
16-17: I get why this is a legal gray area. Maybe it doesn't need to be illegal... maybe. But at the very least if you are the adult you should be held more responsible for things like unwanted pregnancy, STDs, and making absolutely sure they are consenting. Also I think it's totally appropriate that this should be heavily frowned upon by society. You should feel like a creep even if it's not illegal.
18-19: Legally treat anyone this age like an adult. In terms of societal attitude, I think it should be mildly frowned upon for older people to date them but not a big deal. But still frowned upon. Especially if you go out of your way to date people this age, that's creepy. And if you start dating someone on their 18th birthday, super creepy. If you're grooming them before they're 18, predatory and evil. Anything that gives the vibe you are trying to come as close to dating children as you can is creepy. Also morally if you are taking advantage of their immaturity or inexperience to manipulate or pressure them somehow, you are a bad person.
20 and over: fine, I have no problem based on age alone. I may personally think it's gross but I won't judge people for it. Of course, just like with 18-19 year olds, if you're taking advantage of them somehow then that is wrong, but at that point it's the same no matter how old they are.
That part was unnecessary since by definition that's what grooming means.