“What is a Woman?” and Gender War Tribalism

Introduction

In this article, I will be reviewing the video “What Is a Woman?” created by the Ayn Rand Institute. The film, directed by Matt Walsh, delves into the complex questions surrounding sex and gender in modern society. However, instead of providing a sincere documentary, the video appears more like propaganda, lacking genuine concern for truth and promoting a dogmatic view of gender roles. Throughout the video, Walsh appeals to common sense and tribal views of gender roles, which ultimately undermines the pursuit of happiness and individual autonomy.

The Problematic Approach of Walsh’s Film

The film “What Is a Woman?” by Matt Walsh attempts to tackle the intricate issues of sex and gender, but ultimately falls short by taking a biased and propagandistic stance. The video is characterized by Walsh’s appeal to common sense, asserting that gender can be determined by biological sex alone. While this may seem like a logical approach, it ignores the complexity and diversity of human sexuality and gender identity. In reality, settling questions of sex and gender requires a nuanced understanding that goes beyond simplistic appeals to common sense.

Walsh’s Appeal to the Maasai Tribe

One aspect of the video that stands out is Walsh’s appeal to the Maasai tribe as an example of a more primitive view of gender roles. By showcasing the Maasai tribe’s adherence to traditional gender roles, Walsh attempts to justify his belief in a binary understanding of gender. However, this appeal to tribal views is deeply problematic. It reflects a desire for a regressive and simplistic understanding of gender roles that neglects the progress made by societies in recognizing and respecting diverse identities.

Lack of Genuine Concern for Truth

Throughout the video, it becomes apparent that Walsh’s main goal is not to uncover the truth about sex and gender, but rather to promote his own preconceived notions. This lack of genuine concern for truth is evident in his selective use of evidence and failure to engage with opposing perspectives. By cherry-picking examples that support his arguments and dismissing counterarguments without consideration, Walsh undermines the credibility of his claims and reduces the video to mere propaganda.

Religiosity and Gender Roles

Another factor that significantly influences Walsh’s perspective on gender roles is his religiosity. While religiosity can provide individuals with personal beliefs and guidance, it should not be used as a basis for shaping public policy or determining societal norms. Walsh’s appeal to religious views of gender roles reinforces a regressive understanding of gender that restricts individual autonomy and undermines the pursuit of happiness.

Undermining Individual Pursuit of Happiness

Walsh’s promotion of traditional gender roles poses a significant threat to the individual pursuit of happiness. By advocating for rigid gender expectations and dismissing the validity of diverse gender identities, he limits individuals’ ability to express and explore their true selves. This narrow definition of gender roles hinders personal growth, restricts self-expression, and perpetuates harmful stereotypes that can lead to discrimination and marginalization.

Disingenuous Response to Legitimate Issues

While the film attempts to address legitimate concerns regarding sex and gender, Walsh’s response comes across as disingenuous. Rather than engaging in a thoughtful discussion and considering alternative perspectives, he resorts to strawman arguments and mischaracterizations of opposing views. This approach undermines the potential for meaningful dialogue and prevents progress in understanding and accepting diverse gender identities.

Flawed Approaches on Both Sides

It is important to acknowledge that both sides in the debate around sex and gender often have flawed approaches. The video “What Is a Woman?” fails to explore the complexity of human sexuality and gender identity in its narrow focus on essentialism, determinism, and the mind-body dichotomy. These concepts, while relevant to the discussion, do not capture the full spectrum of experiences and diversity within the realm of gender.

The Antidote: Individualism

Ultimately, the video “What Is a Woman?” and the larger debate around gender roles can be seen as manifestations of tribalistic, dogmatic thinking. To overcome these limitations, the concept of individualism offers a powerful antidote. Embracing individualism means recognizing and respecting the autonomy of individuals to define their own gender identity and pursue their own happiness, while also seeking to understand and empathize with the experiences of others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the video “What Is a Woman?” by the Ayn Rand Institute, directed by Matt Walsh, presents a problematic and biased view of sex and gender. It relies on propaganda techniques rather than sincere exploration of the complexities involved in these issues. By appealing to common sense and tribal views of gender roles, Walsh undermines the pursuit of truth and individual autonomy. To move forward, it is crucial to adopt a more inclusive and nuanced perspective that embraces diversity and respects the autonomy of individuals to define their own identities.