On Marissa Mayer, words, labels, self-identification and group affiliation.

[lumberjack_jeff]

1. I think the only defensible definition of feminist (or "masculist" for that matter) is this;

One who advocates for the interests of women (or men).

It's not about fairness, or equality or any of the other euphemistic buzzwords attached to the mission statements.

For example, the NAACP is dedicated to promoting the interests of their membership. The fact that the issues chosen are picked because of perceived inequalities and injustices is irrelevant. NAACP is about promoting a set of policy interests. That's frank, honest and defensible. If, hypothetically, it were found that an inequality exist in the membership's favor, no one would expect them to spend resources remedying them - those truly are someone else's problem.

Presumably folks like Marissa Meyer believe that the struggle for equality is, if not achieved, at least close enough that continued struggle itself carries a risk of harm. When I look at metrics comparing the economic, social, physical and psychological health of the two genders, I find it hard to disagree. Additionally, Ms Meyer got where she is because the board of directors does not perceive her as a helpless victim of patriarchal systems.

Well said, Warren.