Geneticist Steve Jones: Why men are the true second sex.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around an article by geneticist Steve Jones, which presents a provocative view of male roles in reproduction, suggesting that males act as "parasites" on their partners. Participants explore the implications of this perspective, examining gender dynamics and societal roles, while referencing both animal behavior and human relationships.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express agreement with Jones's characterization of males as "parasites," drawing parallels with animal behavior, particularly in the animal kingdom.
  • Others challenge this view, arguing that both genders possess qualities that complement each other and emphasizing the importance of mutual support in relationships.
  • A participant critiques the article as male-bashing and suggests that while there may be shifts in male roles, males are not becoming obsolete.
  • Another participant highlights the existence of altruistic behaviors among men, countering the notion of males solely as parasites.
  • There is a mention of societal changes and the need for women to support men, reflecting differing views on gender roles.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus; instead, multiple competing views are presented regarding the roles and perceptions of men and women in society. Some agree with Jones's perspective, while others strongly oppose it, leading to an unresolved debate.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a range of opinions on gender dynamics, with some arguments relying on interpretations of animal behavior and societal roles. There are also references to the nature of the article and its author, which may influence participants' perceptions.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in gender studies, societal roles, and evolutionary biology may find this discussion relevant, particularly those exploring contemporary views on masculinity and femininity.

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Geneticist Steve Jones: Why men are the true "second sex."

"Males are, in many ways, parasites upon their partners," Jones writes. "Their interests are to persuade the other party to invest in reproduction, while doing as little as they can themselves. Like all vermin, from viruses to tapeworms, they force their reluctant landladies to adapt or to be overwhelmed."

http://www.rense.com/general38/men.htm
 
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If this article is stating the reality of the male role, then we are all in trouble...both genders have typical qualities that compliment the other...i really like this comment from someone who commented:

A very fundamental change in our society needs to take place if we are going to continue as a country. Women need to just grow the f**k up and start supporting, in all respects, their men.

I know I would be awfully lonely without my man :smile:
 
i agree with the statement if you look at the animal kingdome the male attracts the female and in most rodents males have about 80 partners which they either force thems selves on or some how convince the female to hold on to soemthing for a few weeks...humans are no diffrent (- the 80 mates) than anmails and i regret saying this but men suck...most men... But following nature the women do have to do there part by chooseing the best mate

Ladies i am free from now till forever

wow that was the first smily face i used...
 
seems like a highly scientific version of "all men are pigs"
 
Originally posted by Kerrie
both genders have typical qualities that compliment the other

Thanks for restoring my faith, Kerrie. That article was thinly veiled male bashing. Is there an ongoing shift in the role of males in Western cultures? Sure. Are males becoming obsolete to the human race? Not at all. For every "parasite" quality, we could also identify an altruistic quality. For every complaint about men, we could dredge up a similar complaint about women. But I would prefer to focus on the positive.

But that's the linked article (written by an entertainment columnist, not a scientist)...as for the quote from Dr. Steve...I'd note that there are countless examples of human males who devote their lives to helping their mates and their children. Some parasite.
 
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