Teaching Men to Treat People with Decency and Respect

It's tempting to propose training men to treat women as they treat each other, but this idea may miss the mark. Men frequently exhibit the same disrespectful behaviors towards each other. The more comprehensive approach would be to teach men to treat people with decent and respectful behavior.

Abandoning the Idea

There are several reasons why the notion of treating women as men treat each other is flawed. Firstly, men often compete and assert themselves, even among close friends, leading to confrontational exchanges. This behavior can stem from the influence of testosterone and a desire for dominance.

Understanding Dominance and Testosterone

High levels of testosterone can encourage behavior aimed at dominating others, often to enhance one's status. This dominance isn't always aggressive; sometimes it can be exhibited non-aggressively. The key point is that these behaviors are more than just 'intent' - they are often accompanied by a readiness to inflict harm.

For boys in certain environments, physical altercations during childhood are a crucial part of social development. These interactions help them build confidence and certain social skills. However, if a boy grows up without exposure to such conditioning, he may not understand the violent aspects of dominance. In adulthood, such behavior in men often requires intervention and therapy.

The Importance of Environment and Conditioning

Women in first-world countries typically do not experience the same level of social and physical conditioning to demonstrate dominance. They are taught not to hit, and as a result, many women exhibit domineering behavior without a need to earn it. We need to address the issue from a broader perspective, ensuring men understand the importance of treating all with respect and kindness.

For men to convincingly dominate, they must first establish physical dominance. This is analogous to how a belligerent country has to win a war before it can dictate the terms of peace. However, such behavior is critical to their primary goal: enhancing their status or winning the respect of others.

Almost all men will react to being challenged in a dominant manner as they would with other men. Without proper conditioning, this can lead to unattractive and potentially violent responses. It's essential to instill in men the understanding that respect and decency are key in all interactions.

Conclusion

The root of the problem lies in how men are taught to treat others. We must focus on teaching men to respect everyone, regardless of gender. By addressing the underlying reasons for dominance and providing better social conditioning, we can foster a more respectful and considerate society.

Ultimately, the goal is to create an environment where all individuals are treated with decency and respect, transcending gender boundaries.