Personally, I just called it “being polite” and treating a lady like a lady
If you’re the sort of gentleman who holds the door open for a lady – or the sort of woman who expects him to – then be warned.
Such acts of chivalry may actually be ‘benevolent sexism’ in disguise, according to researchers.
Experts say this type of sexism is harder to spot than the ‘hostile sexism’ we are more familiar with – because it often masquerades as gallantry. It is typified by paternal and protective behaviour, from encouraging smiles to holding doors open.
Could those who identify as hardcore feminists please wear some sort of badge or hat or something, that way I can identify them, the better to let the door go.
US researchers argue that while women may enjoy being showered with attention, benevolent sexism is ‘insidious’ and men who are guilty of it see women as incompetent beings who require their ‘cherished protection’.
Professor Judith Hall, of Northeastern University in Boston, said: ‘Benevolent sexism is like a wolf in sheep’s clothing that perpetuates support for gender inequality among women.
So, I should now hold the door for men, but not women? I’ll be sure to refer any upset lady to Prof Hall and her research team.
The rest of the article points out that being a benevolent sexist is Just As Bad as being a hostile sexist. You cannot win with these people.
They found men whose answers led to them being classed as benevolently sexist smiled more while playing the quiz game and chatting.
They were more patient while waiting for their female partners to answer the trivia questions and warmer, friendlier and chattier than those who were hostile sexists.
So, no smiling at women, no holding doors, let her freeze or get soaked, and treat her just like your best mates.
And people wonder why we don’t take these so-called experts seriously.
What no pin up ?
Always be polite in your dealings with others. Treat women just like they’re people too, and you’ll be alright.
If someone objects to your politeness, it’s on them (unless you were being a leering jerk).
Some men complain that George Clooney never gets accused of being too “polite”. That’s true, but you’re not George Clooney.
I held the door for another man yesterday; was I simply being polite and not letting the door slam in his face, or was I somehow being a heterosexist and insulting his masculinity?