It doesn't even have to go as far as a subordinate being paid off. They might be benefitting by just keeping the job because the boss knows they wouldn't make a fuss if they see something. It doesn't have to be a conspiracy for both parties to be benefitting. Can it be the case that they're victims of the same abuse of power of course, but sexual assault is rampant in the workplace not because of a few evil eggs that manipulated everyone but because a CULTURE of acceptance.
The standard you walk past without complaint is the standard you endorse. MLK's words on the white moderate are also applicable 'more devoted to order than justice'. Justice being hard and and threatening to your financial security does not make you a victim of the same abuse of power.
You could make the case capitalism is the real problem here imo.
@davidpakman