When I was a JW and for some time after, I didn't think it possible for a man and woman to have a platonic relationship. Now I know that not to be true... technically, though it's still rather rare.
I have a female friend or two that I've known for years, that are quite attractive, and there is no question of us ever being items (before Brigid even). We can hang out alone, watch films, etc and it's no big deal. An example, for a while I lived with one of them and would frequently see her walk around the house in just her underwear and a t-shirt (she was a topless dancer as well). And sure, I have no problem admitting that I'd check her out. I'd even tell her so. But, we were friends. And as friends, we loved each other. And we knew each other well enough to know that we were not a match. So, it can happen.
And I know this is an extreme example. But the problem I see with the way the WBTS presents it is that we are slaves to our animal instincts, that we are innately weak and will give in, every time, when presented with an opportunity. If this is so, it is only so because the WBTS structure keeps its constituents weak-willed and child-like, not developing them into strong individuals, able to resist such a temptation.
They speak a lot of self-discipline, but have no idea what that really means. Self-discipline comes from within, hence the self, rather than from some bureaucratic authority from without.
