Should chivalry exist?

Question

I have seen this question asked so many times in feminist literature. Yet, should we even have to ask this? Shouldn't it be obvious that any show of chivalry should be commended?

I'm tired of other women saying how we have come so far from the last century or two. Yet, have we? Sure, there were inequalities then, just like there will always be. But, there was more respect; there was more distinction between genders. They complain about chivalry's existence and how they should be free to express themselves physically, yet these same people complain about the increase of teenage pregancies and men disrespecting women. Is it any surprise?

Some women see chivalry as an insult, I once read. Holding the door open apparently means to some that the woman is physically incapable of pulling a thin sheet of metal-framed glass out a few feet. You really have to consider the IQ of anyone who believes a common courtesy indicates that a woman can't open a door; it's a common "courtesy."

Answer 1

I think so i mean i would go out of my way to be nicer to women than i am to lets say another guy.

Answer 2

I think it is lovely to have a door held open for my by a man, i do not find it insulting one bit, i can remember a time when the man would walk on the kerb side of the road making sure that the woman was on the "wall side"as to protect her from the dangers of the road, also they would walk down stairs in front of her in case she slipped and he would be there to catch her, like wise going up stairs after her mainly if they went up stairs on a double decker bus "and not to take a look up her skirt" as men had more respect for the woman back then, there was many other things a man would do to make sure the woman was safe, it showed total respect for woman which was really great. And if i could find a descent man who still did all those things today it would please me very much, and maybe some other women, it is a shame that such chivalry has died, and it is just common courtesy and politeness, but i doubt that in to days world there are not to many men who are men and have no respect for woman.

Answer 3

Not too keen on 'shoulds' I think we learn more when there are options and consequences.

Chivalry does exist - maybe in more modern ways  - Maybe also - there is a female equivalent of chivalry - certianly amongst older women when there are fewer men they ask each other to dance.

I don't complain about the existence of chivalry and I haven't met anyone who complains about having a door held open for them I do it all the time for mothers with pushchairs and anyone coming up behind me.

But it takes all sorts and all wants and needs to make a world so  by the same token I don't take issue with those who don't like it. Respect and not blaming of anyone is key to chivalry I think.

Answer 4

Yes. And thank you for pointing out the error of some feminist views. You seem to have a very perceptive mind. One of the very few that I personally have done a double take on. Still I am new on this forum, maybe there are others as astute.

Answer 5

I agree.

I am from the south, where most men still hold the door for a lady. I now live in a more socialistic (everyone is equal) country, and it still shocks me how a guy will let the door hit a girl in the head rather than hold it for her. It's like the thought doesn't even enter their mind.

Of course everyone should be polite- men and women. I hold the door for elderly people, people carrying stuff, and anyone else who needs it. Politeness is greatly under appreciated these days, but it really makes society better.

Answer 6

it's not about chilvalry but being a decent human being.  i usually hold the door for whoever is behind me (guy or girl).

Answer 7

it should exist no question about it, people often take things too far.

Answer 8

I feel like its a little demeaning to women to hold a door open, or pull out a chair, it gives the connotation that us males are the stronger s*x and that women cant do for themselves, same thing with dating, why is it courtesy, why isnt the courtesy for you guys to do everything for us. Chauvinism is so deeply rooted in society in ways the you wouldnt see until you really think. Why should the woman takes the mans lastname? Why shouldn't the woman split the dinner bill instead of being paid for on a date?