Muse – Lazy Thought of the Day

Not in the mood to rake the news today, but I have had a thought I think worthy of discussion.

I propose that the only difference between chivalry and chauvinism is the intent behind the act. This opinion extends towards acts of kindness toward women, such as opening doors, carrying things and so forth.

Discuss and dissect.

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March 23, 2006

I am grateful to have not encountered the often referenced radically feminist woman who object to the chivalrous male as a chauvenist. The words surrounding this subject are all really hard to spell. Can we discuss something else? 🙂

March 23, 2006

I think intent means almost everything. By the way, thanks to you, I have been spending some time searching out progressive/liberal blogs on the NET and have come to really enjoy dailkos.com Thanks!

March 24, 2006

It’s hard to open a door for someone in a chauvanistic way unless you’re stood there going ‘Hahahahaha, you’re too weak to open a door!!’ Intent is everything. I think people open doors for each other because it’s polite and sometimes helpful. Car doors I’m not so sure about. I like chivalry. It’s nice when it happens. Restores some faith in humanity.

intent is of course key. Just make sure you can correctly express that intent, so that some crazy femnist doesn’t yell at you for holding a door open for her.