BERNARD STARR: SEX LIES AND STATS

Every smart gambler knows it's wise to avoid low percentage bets that defy statistics. In the recent elections, Republicans might have done better if they consulted a bookmaker who would have advised them not to make their stand on the infidelity issue, or its ramifications, no matter how morally justified.

Research clearly shows that much of the population -- male and female -- has cheated. Not only has a large percentage of the population committed infidelity, most have lied about it. The title of Dr. Frank Pittman's book on infidelity makes that point starkly: "Private Lies."

Statistics on infidelity vary, with some studies more trustworthy than others. But generally, more than half the married population is implicated. The figures for men historically have been greater than for women.

According to sociologists, the Industrial Revolution gave infidelity a big boost by moving men's work world away from the confines of farms to the anonymity of cities. Now, with most women working outside the home, they're catching up on affairs, says feminist writer Shere Hite. She claims that 75 percent of married women have cheated at some time -- probably an overestimation, but making the point that infidelity has risen whenever society has provided the opportunity. Or in the words of comedian Rodney Dangerfield: " I asked my wife to have sex. She said she already gave at the office."

Then if you include those, like former President Jimmy Carter, who haven't committed actual infidelity but admit to "lust in their heart" (meaning in fantasy), we're talking about almost everyone.

Is it any wonder, therefore, that invading sexual privacy, humiliating by revealing intimate sexual details, and then conspiring to run someone out of town because of infidelity, has not found an enthusiastic lynch mob, or even an impressive-sized posse. The sheriff and hangman now discover they're practically alone.

It may be true that there are three kinds of lies -- lies, damned lies, and statistics. But in this instance, statistics told the truth. Many politicians didn't pay attention.

BERNARD STARR is co-author of "Stalemates: The Truth About Extramarital Affairs," and is host of "The Longevity Report" on WEVD-AM radio in NYC.