Psychological Differences Between the Sexes: An Historical Perspective

I often hear of various studies about how men and women might differ in certain traits or behaviors, but it has been my default position (because I heard it from a psychologist once -- admittedly not with the careful-est of consideration) that men and women are pretty much psychologically the same in every way except the ability to throw overhand. A number of things have recently challenged that position.

First there was Anna's detailed summary of linguist Deborah Tannen's book You Just Don't Understand which dissects the communication differences between the sexes. Then Rick pointed to a WSJ article from last April called "Friendship for Guys" which includes this gem of a quote. Then Penelope Trunk posted in her characteristically provoking style the suggestion that maybe the workforce should be segregated by gender.

I have tended to tire quickly of gender differences discussions because they are typically filled with speculation and clichés, but these articles along with the statistics presented in this TED Talk are making me want need to reconsider the differences that may exist, and the implications thereof.

I intend to explore some of these topics in future posts, but before we get ahead of ourselves I think an injection of some historical perspective would be healthy. Here is a 13 minute video that was likely played in schools in the 1960's. I am guessing you will either find it hilarious or offensive or probably both.



I share that only to illustrate how perspectives/norms have changed in a relatively short amount of time—not to mute discussion. I fully support Penelope's exploration of "radical" ideas, even if they come at the expense of offending people. If there are significant differences, we ought to know about them and openly discuss them and their implications, not hide behind an egalitarian delusion.

More next week, probably...