More and more daters have begun to self-identify as feminists — and want their dates to do the same. But this then presents many with an internal conflict when their political beliefs as self-identified feminists seem to clash with their preferences as far as their dating lives. It seems the struggle is: can you still be a feminist while having somewhat traditional views on courtship? From politics to Hollywood, everyone is talking about, and reevaluating, genders roles and expectations, especially when it comes to dating. But there is an outdated idea that all self-identified feminists feel and act the same way and that part of being a feminist means wanting to throw all traditional gender roles, including those that apply to dating, out the window.
Why I Stopped Dating These 5 Types Of “Feminist” Men
13 Reasons Guys Should Absolutely Date Feminists
Despite how hard the facts are pushed, many men still see feminism is a rather negative light instead of the outlet for equality it presents. Guys, I know it may be a scary idea, but dating a feminist will really pay off for your benefit. Virtually every component of the relationship will be equal and you will be uplifted in ways that a relationship with a woman who supports traditional gender roles cannot provide you. Since this accepting love and mutual respect carry heavily into a relationship with a feminist, dating a feminist may be the most empowering thing you could do. First and foremost, a feminist truly believes in gender equality, and this equality does not stop with a relationship by any means. We want to financially contribute the same as you do.
I'm a radical liberal feminist and I don't hate men! I know, it's nuts. It's almost like I was raised by an awesome father, have great brothers, and understand that people are complicated and that it's shortsighted to to write off an entire gender just because of the actions of some of them. Joking aside, it's hard to date and be a feminist.
Popular culture can give you the feeling that dating rests entirely on ladies doing and not doing a laundry list of things in order to snag and keep a man. Or Never Call Back. If their immediate response is offensive or misogynistic, it's a red flag. And can he talk about them in ways that express curiosity and engagement and respect, instead of defensiveness, or dismissiveness, or attachment to stereotypes? If we can talk about this stuff in ways that are interesting and productive, I can work with it most of the time.