Stupid rationalisations

Attitudes may have changed slightly but this latest survey really makes my blood boil:  flirtatious women are 'asking' to be raped, according to a sizeable minority.

Now let's apply this lesson to IT security. Got a shiny new laptop that you're using in public? You must be begging to get beaten up and robbed. Look at the way you're flaunting that 3G data card with its flashing lights attracting the eyes of muggers.

Flashing a 17in screen with brilliant colour? For shame! You're displaying £2,000 worth of easily floggable gear. Begging for it obviously. And as for the blatant way some people use their smartphones in public …

Like most stupid prejudices it's easy to spot double standards when you try and apply them to other areas.