I constructed the definition myself by observing actual Feminists’ activity and hearing and reading Feminists’ words and observing the actual concrete steps they take to apply those words. Whether I would apply my definition to you as an individual would depend upon the actual concrete steps that you take in “working for a culture shift towards appreciating the feminine on an equal footing as that of the masculine.”
Personally, I recognize no obligation to conform my conduct, my thoughts or the content of my conversations to Feminists’ expectations. I would oppose any effort on the part of Feminists (as I have defined them) to impose coercive or restrictive measures intended to force me to comply with their expectations. Beyond that I offer no opposition to Feminism, with one exception: ….
….I strongly oppose the common Feminist practice of obstructing or seeking to obstruct the public expression of thoughts or ideas that challenge their ideology. Here are a couple of examples:
If your vision of “working for a culture shift towards appreciating the feminine on an equal footing as that of the masculine” does not include coercion, restriction or obstruction then I do not stand in opposition to it. I may even stand in support; it’s hard to say since it is not clear to me what is involved in a culture shift towards appreciating the feminine on an equal footing as that of the masculine. I’m not sure that the feminine is not already appreciated on an equal footing as that of the masculine. After gaining greater clarity I may find that I support your vision, but it may be low on my list of priorities.
I do not perceive myself being in any way restricted from exploring the whole spectrum of human traits, nor am I aware of anyone who is. There will always be critics who fail to mind their own business and sometimes it is necessary to act in spite of them. If I decide I wish to cry or show emotion, I will do so in spite of anyone’s criticism. If a woman wishes to be strong that is her prerogative. If she is criticized for it, then she might use that strength to defy her critics. If someone claims that I am acting like a girl, then that is their opinion, everyone has an opinion. I would give their opinion all of the consideration that it is due by ignoring it. As you may surmise, there is nothing that Feminism has to offer me. I am not confined to a box.
Every society must establish norms. Without norms there is no organized society. There will always be some whose constitution makes it difficult for them to adjust to the norms. That will be true for any form of social organization.
As for your working towards a cultural shift - good luck. Does anyone actually know how to manipulate the forces that produce culture and achieve predictable results? My understanding is that cultures emerge as a result of individuals collaborating with other individuals to extract essential and life sustaining resources from the environment they inhabit. The outcome is emergent and does not conform to the will or intention of any individual or faction, it is responsive to the characteristics of the particular environment that a population inhabits.
I have explained the above concept more thoroughly in this comment:
My understanding is consistent with the theories of anthropologist and historian Ian Morris. I have explained his theories more thoroughly in this comment:
Some of the statements may appear to be a bit cryptic. The cited comment was part of a conversation and the other party’s comments have been deleted.
From the Wikipedia article:
The four questions that you posed in your comment in our other conversation are excellent ones. Answering them will require deep thought. That means more time since I am a slow thinker. Please be patient; I’m working on it.
