Sexual scandals are common in politics because they can be used to attack an opponent's character, undermine their credibility, and weaken their support base. This is true in all cultures and throughout history.
There are also more specific structural reasons why this tactic is so prevalent.
It allows politicians to exploit society's deep fears about the dark side of human nature and its desires. People are often uncomfortable talking openly about sex, but many still have strong feelings about it. They may feel ashamed of these desires, which makes them vulnerable to accusations that someone else has acted on them. Political scandal gives the public a way to express its anxiety without having to confront their own guilt.
Sexual scandal is rooted in gender roles and power dynamics. In patriarchal societies, women are usually seen as objects for male pleasure. When a man is caught cheating or abusing his position for sexual gratification, he is accused of violating this cultural norm. It's easy to create an image of him as a misogynist who uses his influence to take advantage of innocent victims.
Sexual scandal has symbolic meaning beyond the actual behavior itself. Politicians may use it to send messages about corruption or immorality, justifying action against their enemies.
If one party accuses another of promoting immoral values through sex, they may then portray themselves as the righteous defenders of morality. This can gain them supporters even if the accusation is unfounded.
The media plays a big role in spreading scandals. News outlets know sensational stories sell well, so they're willing to publish anything that will generate controversy. This creates a cycle where more politicians feel compelled to engage with sexual issues to get attention. The result is a constant stream of scandalous headlines that distract from real policy discussions.
Political scandal is often based on fear, gender stereotypes, and symbolism. These factors make it difficult to avoid, but also explain why it keeps happening over time and across cultures.
What structural factors make sexual scandal a recurring tool for political disruption across cultures and eras?
Sexual scandals have been used as tools for political disruption across cultures and eras because they are often seen as more personal than other forms of criticism, which makes them more emotionally impactful. They can also be easier to understand and relate to for people who do not have much experience with politics, making them accessible to a wider audience.