The article explores the historical context and implications of sexual scandals on the legitimacy of societal elites, particularly drawing parallels between the old regime and the current implications of the Epstein affair. It highlights how scandals related to the private lives of elites have historically weakened their position and led to political upheaval, making revolutions conceivable. The piece reflects on the late 18th-century narratives around aristocratic legitimacy, suggesting that scandals are not merely anecdotal but pivotal in shaping public perception and trust.

The author argues that the Epstein scandal is symptomatic of a larger trend where the credibility of democratic elites is increasingly questioned due to their personal misdeeds. By analyzing the 18th-century collapse of the Old Regime primarily through the lens of financial issues like public debt and bankruptcy, the article posits that moral failures may bear equal weight in eroding the foundations of power. Historical narratives around the French Revolution illustrate how sweeping public disclosures about elite scandal prompted scrutiny that ultimately contributed to a collective questioning of authority.

In conclusion, the piece suggests that the implications of sexual scandals on democracy and its elites today reflect a pattern reaffirmed through history. Such events not only damage reputations but also pose broader existential threats to governmental systems by prompting citizens to seek accountability and justice. The echoing effects of the Epstein affair could shape contemporary democratic climates in significant ways, calling for a reevaluation of accountability in leadership roles.