About the show: Dave Pickering takes us on a personal journey through gender as he tries to explain masculinity both to you and to himself. Part true storytelling, part TED talk and part apology, the show looks at how the patriarchy hurts men too; how the patriarchy has hurt him, and how he has hurt people because of patriarchy. Drawing on an anonymous survey of 1000 men, feminist theory, internet memes and his life experience, Dave will explain the conclusions he Read More ...
Introduction to the survey I don’t think this survey is representative of all men. To a certain extent, it’s a survey of feminist-leaning men. The initial respondents came generally from that POV, and as the survey grew, it was mostly shared by feminists. That said, it does represent many other viewpoints. For example, there were a few hundred in a row where it was mostly being filled in by Men’s Rights Activists. But whatever their starting point, the men filling in the survey had Read More ...
Does patriarchy exist?
Yes
How would you define patriarchy?
A system (deliberately created or otherwise) in which men hold a majority of the power, specifically over women.
How has patriarchy hurt you?
Short answer is that it hasn’t, it has helped me. More broadly some aspects are so internalised that I am a worse person for it and it took me far to long to realise this.
How have you hurt people in a way influenced by patriachy?
I have probably made assumptions about people in a way that has made them feel less valued.
How would you define masculinity?
Almost everything about myself that I dislike.
Does misandry exist?
Maybe
It probably does exist but is in no way supported and encouraged by society. I often see it used in an ironic, empowering, or consciousness raising way
Have you experienced gender and/or sex related prejudice?
Yes
Since a very early age I have wanted to wear women’s clothes and explore my feminine side – I consider that a part of who I am (I’m straight and still fully identify as male). When I have expressed a desire to do so I have faced rejection and disgust from those I care about most and who are supposed to care about me
What best describes you?
A feminist