Rape is foremost a crime of aggression against women. Rape statistics from 1971 to 1978 indicate substantial increases in the incidence of rape in the United States, Europe, and India. In India, there have been significant increases in crimes against women between 1971 and 1979. While the percentage of cases involving rape has shown increases and decreases over time and variation by State, the overall pattern has been of increase. Explanations of causation have focused on the emotional immaturity and psychosexual disturbance of the offender and the contributions of social values that view women as sex objects and commodities for domination by males. To deal effectively with rape, the public must become more conscious about crimes against women and the prosecution of offenders. Better statistical data are also needed. Women should make efforts to learn self-defense, and educational programs on sexuality and personal safety are needed. In addition, legal and other services for rape victims are needed. Finally, there must a reevaluation of the perverted value system and its replacement by one that is more humane, egalitarian, and respectful of women as individuals in their own right. 10 references.