Yet More about sexism and division of labor

[cindysphynx]

Amanda wrote:

>Women, *in general,* like to interact via cooperation and
>consensus; men, *in general,* function more competitively in a
> hierarchichal approach. I think it's hardwired. 

and continued:

>I mean "in general," in the same way you can
> say with reasonable accuracy that women are less muscular than 
>men, or smaller, or more flexible. As a rough measure, it's true. 


Hmmm.  I'm not sure that suggesting that women in general interact 
via cooperation and consensus but men in general function more 
competitively is at all the same as saying that women in general are 
less muscular or smaller.

The difference in my mind is that things like muscle mass and height 
can be objectively measured and quantified and are readily 
observable.  Traits like competitiveness cannot be objectively 
measured or quantified in any reliable way that I can think of, and 
competitiveness is not always readily observable.  Indeed, any 
attempt to measure and quantify competitiveness may be unreliable 
due to the biases of the tester or biases in the test itself.  

That is why I think it is a risky practice to interact with a woman 
like me and begin with preconceived notions that I am more likely to 
be cooperative rather than competitive.  

In any event, it isn't a mistake many people would make more than 
once.  ;-)

Cindy -- joining Laura in the Atypical Females corner