Reader's Blog: Gender diversity should be celebrated
I found it refreshing and informative to peruse the mansplaining comments of Christina Hoff Sommers in her book The War against Boys published in 2000.
For instance, the writer states that “we should put an end to all the crisis mongering” when discussing male/female distinctiveness amongst young people.
Her statements put me in mind of current gender-related discussions, concerning all age groups, as they serve to confront the negative perceptions of male stereotypes so frequently portrayed nowadays.
Such viewpoints prompt questions about the wisdom of anti-sexism movements which are becoming increasingly popular.
It could, in fact, be argued that the activities, pronouncements and attitudes of radical feminists might in time destroy relationships between men and women.
Inequitable male supremacy is still unacceptable, however, and the physical abuse of females should never be tolerated in any society.
Furthermore, all continuing injustices such as discriminatory salaries or promotional opportunities should be reformed when identified.
On the other hand, fundamental biological differences between the sexes cannot be discounted or ignored.
Males on the whole are invariable stronger than females and this attribute should be respected and utilised.
As women, we are, after all, frequently grateful for their assistance and competence when confronted with certain day-to-day problems which we may not be able to rectify due to our weaker physique.
While no one wants to return to the conditions which pertained in traditional Ireland with its overtly patriarchal and discriminatory power structures, it surely isn’t unreasonable to suggest that a more balanced approach to discussions on gender relationships is urgently called for nowadays.
Although radical campaigns against manliness may be fashionable, they may prove to be unhelpful and cause irreparable damage in the long run. Furthermore, gender diversity should be celebrated and enjoyed rather than being continuously criticised.
It would be beneficial if tolerance, understanding and optimism triumphed over evolving discord between the sexes which is all too often a marked feature of today’s world.
While it may be justified and well-intentioned in some instances it can sometimes be injudicious and unreasonable.
