Women and children can be careless, but not men Popular culture Aphorism Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century United States or Western Europe 0 0 0 0 Write the first comment Meaning The meaning of the phrase suggests a social construct wherein carelessness is acceptable for women and children, possibly implying that men should always be vigilant and responsible. Philosophically, it prompts discussions about gender expectations and societal norms, suggesting that responsibilities are designated based on gender roles rather than individual behavior. This viewpoint can be analyzed through feminist theory, which critiques the impositions of traditional roles on all genders. Allegory The allegorical image will consist of two main areas: one depicting men in formal attire engaged in serious tasks, showcasing their perceived responsibility, and the other showing women and children in playful settings, symbolizing their allowable carelessness. The balanced scale serves as a focal point, representing the societal expectation that burdens men with responsibility while allowing women and children the freedom to be carefree. The vibrant colors signify the contrast in expectation and emotional impact, evoking reflection on the nature of societal roles. Applicability The lesson from this phrase can serve as a reflection on gender roles in everyday life. It challenges one to reconsider the assumptions regarding responsibilities and behaviors expected from different genders and encourages men to recognize that carelessness can also be a human trait, not solely gender-specific. Impact This phrase's impact lies in its reflection of societal norms and expectations that contribute to gender stereotypes. It can often be quoted in discussions about gender roles and inequality, especially in feminist discourse or critiques of masculinity. Historical Context The origins of the phrase are not easily traceable to a specific date or source. However, its sentiments echo themes prevalent in 19th and 20th-century literature and discourse regarding gender roles and societal expectations. Criticisms Criticism of this phrase arises from its reinforcement of harmful stereotypes and gender inequality. Critics argue that it perpetuates a binary view of gendered behavior that can be oppressive to both men and women, suggesting that carelessness can have various implications beyond gendered expectations. Variations Variations of this phrase exist across cultures that emphasize gender roles, such as in many traditional sayings from various cultures that delineate responsibilities based on gender. For example, in some cultures, there are narratives that suggest 'mothers are nurturing, fathers are protectors.', showing similar dichotomies in expectations. Go back to the description 280 characters left Send Comment No Comments I have a sentimental weakness for my children, and I spoil them, as you can see. Mario Puzo Read more You talk about vengeance. Is vengeance going to bring your son back to you? David Franzoni, John Logan, William Nicholson Read more Some day, and that day may never come, I will call upon you to do a service for me. Mario Puzo Read more A man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man. Mario Puzo (popular culture) Read more Finance is a gun. Politics is knowing when to pull the trigger. Warren Buffett Read more I want you to use all your powers and all your skills. I don't want his mother to see him this way. Popular Culture / Anonymity in Individual Expressions Read more What’s the matter with you? Is this how you turned out? A Hollywood finocchio that cries like a woman? Mario Puzo, Francis Ford Coppola (in terms of popular culture through the film adaptation) Read more After me, the flood. Louis XV Read more I don't give a damn for a man that can only spell a word one way. Mark Twain Read more You'll be able to save your preferences and post comments. You'll be able to save your preferences and post comments. Sign in with: or with your email address: Email Password Sign in Loading... Name Insert your name or nick (3 to 20 char). Email Insert a valid email address to be verified. Password 8+ chars, 1 uppercase, 1 lowercase, 1 number, 1 special @$!%*?_+ Clicking the Create account button will send you a verification email. Create account New here? Sign up. Previous Close
I have a sentimental weakness for my children, and I spoil them, as you can see. Mario Puzo Read more
You talk about vengeance. Is vengeance going to bring your son back to you? David Franzoni, John Logan, William Nicholson Read more
Some day, and that day may never come, I will call upon you to do a service for me. Mario Puzo Read more
A man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be a real man. Mario Puzo (popular culture) Read more
I want you to use all your powers and all your skills. I don't want his mother to see him this way. Popular Culture / Anonymity in Individual Expressions Read more
What’s the matter with you? Is this how you turned out? A Hollywood finocchio that cries like a woman? Mario Puzo, Francis Ford Coppola (in terms of popular culture through the film adaptation) Read more