Call me a bitch.

Interestingly enough, this article appeared not long after I saw the book "Are men really necessary". Written by Kate Figes, the article takes a look at how strong, independent women who are not afraid of giving their opinions are considered bitches.

I liked the article, and I think that she is mostly right. As much progress as we have made, women are still expected to be the docile types. I honestly do not think that its the brashness or the opinions that make men (and women alike) label these loud women bitches. Its only when they feel threatened that it happens. Women can say anything and have nothing negative happen to them, as long as they are wrong. But the moment they are right, they start to threaten people who are already very comfortable in their positions, and that will quite easily spark name calling. Its not being sexist. Its survival instinct.

Its not to say that calling talented women bitches can be justified in anyway. I would echo the author's call to continue being outspoken in a heartbeat. Too often, are people who speak their mind considered 'nasty' or 'not nice'. I should know. What I do find interesting is that the author makes a distinction between a good bitch and a bad one. The bad bitch is the manipulative, self serving individuals that tear others down so that they can feel good. The good one speaks her mind and stands up for herself. I don't, however see any link between the two kinds of bitches. Both are described with the same word, but are mutually exclusive. The author says that women have no guidance to change from a weak and bad bitch into a strong and good one. I disagree. There is no transition. A woman can be both, and can be neither. Both those types of characters inspired some kind of anger. It really is no surprise that both are called the same thing. The word bitch is used out of hate, much like the word fuck. And the word fuck is now used to describe so many things, its confusing. But most people who use the word are not referring to sex, although technically, thats what fuck points at.

And then there is the bit that says 'real women are loud, brave and outspoken'. Bullshit. Real women are no more loud, brave and outspoken than real men are muscular, chivalrous and well hung. Being loud is something that some people are. Some people are just less eager to express opinions. That doesn't make them any less masculine or feminine than other people.