Sexism is merely one form of ignoring powerlessness

from pixabay

My notes and paraphrases from Why Men Are the Way They Are (1986) by Warren Farrell
Old male sexism discounts female experiences of powerlessness.
New sexism discounts male experiences of powerlessness in men and boys.
(revised from page 194)

Chivalry

Early chivalry in Western Europe, in the 1300s-1400s, can perhaps be largely characterized as men acknowledging, honoring and taking into account women’s experiences of powerlessness.

I suspect the word “compassion” has evolved significantly since the 1400s. The word “empathy” did not exist at all.

What we have yet to progress to is chivalry for men, women acknowledging, honoring and taking into account male experiences of powerlessness.

Will women even be allowed to do this, as long as young males are needed to fight old males’ wars?

Paraphrase from book ~ Only when a woman understands and shares male risks can she really begin to understand men.

Cognizing without sharing is often intellect from the neck-up, without compassion or heartfelt connection.