A high school teacher in Oregon has prompted outrage with a letter arguing that rape culture is a 'dubious' and 'hysterical' concept.

David Lickey, who teaches Social Studies at Grant High School in Portland, distributed the three-page-letter among students and staff on May 2.

David Lickey argued in a letter that rape culture is a 'dubious' and 'hysterical' concept

In it he says that 'the very wording of "Rape Culture seems to me a bit hysterical' and that '"Rape culture" is a theoretical construct that is ill-defined.'

He adds: 'What exactly is "rape culture"? I don't see it in my life or the lives of any of the men and women I have known.'

The incident, which occurred at Grant High School in Portland, Oregon, has since gone viral

He continues: 'If we continue blaming rape on patriarchal male "culture" we are excusing the rapist from their behavior.

Later on in the letter he says: 'None of the men I know and share my life with, fell like women are objects of domination and exploitation.'

Lickey also argues that attempts to do away with rape culture amounted to social engineering - which made him think of 'the Bolshevik's vision [and] the Khmer Rouge's cultural utopia.'

It is believed the letter was prompted after Lickey took part in a class debate on the subject.

However, Lickey's argument has since gone viral, with many outraged over the perceived insensitivity of his comments.

It is believed the letter circulated after a fierce classroom debate around sexual assault

David Lickey likened attempts to combat rape culture with the 'Khamer Rouge's (sic)' cultural utopia

On May 5 Grant High School Principal Carol Campbell had to send a message to the families of pupils, the Oregonian reported.

It said: '[The letter] included some statements that run counter to the way we approach this important subject. The perspective of the teacher does not reflect or support our approach to educating students on sexual assault.

The letter has gone viral online, with many commentators outraged at its arguments

'It is our primary goal to ensure Grant is a safe place for all.'

Lickey's letter also argues that pornography provides 'an outlet for male sexuality that moderates rape and sexual assault in the population'

He adds: 'Sex sells and mass media uses sex to sell. But markets are free. If one does not like the sexual attitudes of media one does not have to consume it...

'Those who cultivate sexual allure with panache and skill can profit from it mightily. Who am I to say that Lady Ga-Ga (sic) can't be rich and famous because of the tremendous Eros she is able radiate through her song, dance and physique.'

According to the Grant High School magazine Lickey has taught at the school since 1993.

He also helped with the school's Constitution team, which aims to help students gain a legal understanding of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.