Feminists

uninspired though they may be.

I've always thought that the social culture of war creates a backlash against the 'feminine'. As men increasingly define themselves by the standard of 'warrior' - even if the closest they actually get to it is a video game - their need to shoehorn women into antiquated models of behavior increases.

If men are to perceive themselves as 'warriors' then they have to have something to 'fight for'. Patriotism is always a big draw, but even more than that is the idea of protecting something weaker than themselves. Who better to put into that category than the women. In order for that to work, though, they have to create a view of women that require the sort of protection they believe they need to provide. Weak, unaccomplished, silly, stupid, venal - all those things suggest that women can't take care of themselves. They need protectors.

We have been in a 'war culture' since 2002; plenty long enough for the attitude to filter through society and make an appearance in entertainment media.

I don't really think that equality has ever really 'stuck' all that well with men. Many get it, but more just accept it without understanding it - and a considerable number just parrot the language without believing it at all. Given the slightest opportunity, those latter groups are probably the first to embrace any sense that the board has been redrawn in their favor.

. . . and this makes virtually no sense, but I'll stick it out there anyway. Perhaps someone can clarify my thinking for me!