General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: The latent sexism of the male marriage proposal [View all]davidn3600
(6,342 posts)...I think a majority of women prefer the man to take the lead and the first step in matters concerning relationships and marriage. In fact if you read the bottom of the article, it says women are a big reason for these old marriage traditions and why they continue today.
Although some feminists are trying to change this up a bit, women as a whole are not really stepping up and taking the initiative for one reason or another. It may be a comfort zone thing. I've heard some women say that they are afraid it might make them look desperate if they make first moves. Others say they are just old fashioned. Others admit they fear rejection or just feel like it's the man's job to do it.
Every society has customs and transitions concerning marriages. These customs have proven to be incredibly difficult to break. They are extremely persistent. No doubt the patriarchy drew up these rules. But most men are becoming very flexible here, they are willing to have things changed. Young men especially see absolutely nothing wrong with women making the first moves. It's women that have really yet to make a move to crush this aspect of patriarchy. Until that happens, men are going to continue playing by the old rules. Because otherwise, they'll be single forever.