Skip to content

Men make the mistake of thinking that because women can't…

“Men make the mistake of thinking that because women can't see the sense in violence, they must be passive creatures. It's just not true. In one important way, at least, men are the passive sex. Given a choice, they will always opt for the status q” quote by W H Auden
Download Open image
“Men make the mistake of thinking that because women can't see the sense in violence, they must be passive creatures. It's just not true. In one important way, at least, men are the passive sex. Given a choice, they will always opt for the status q”

W H Auden

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Men often assume women are passive because they reject violence, but men can also be passive, especially when choosing comfort over change.

In simple terms: Women aren't passive; men can be too.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and challenge gender stereotypes.

Themes

gender roles violence passivity stereotypes

Mood

reflective critical

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • workplace decisions
  • personal relationships
  • political activism

Key Concepts

masculinity feminism social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do societal expectations shape gender behavior?
  • What steps can men take to avoid passive choices?
A Different Perspective

Assumes all men are passive; overlooks individual agency.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by W H Auden

Explore all 12 W H Auden quotes

More Failure quotes

Browse all 27,498 Failure quotes