What Is Mansplaining?
Mansplaining is frequently linked to a macho act, even if it takes place in a subtle way, without the man being aware of his way of acting and of what derives from it.
What is mansplaining?
The term “mansplaining” comes from English and consists of the words “man” and “explain” which mean “man” and “explain” respectively. It usually refers to the condescending and paternalistic treatment that men show towards women, as if their interlocutors do not have enough ability, agility or intelligence to get by in a conversation or a situation.
We can find examples of mansplaining when a man talks about a traditionally masculine subject, trying to pass himself off as smarter. And by seeking that the woman is limited to being silent. And to learn.
The link between mansplaining and machismo
Mansplaining is usually a macho manifestation because the man expresses himself or binds himself from an apparent position of superiority. We are talking about a phenomenon that is sometimes quite subtle and that is why it is normally called micro-machismo.
Ultimately, mansplaining has a very clear effect on power relations. A woman can become invisible. Or be canceled in the professional field because of his relationship with colleagues or bosses who consider themselves wiser. Experienced or intelligent.
Mansplaining towards other men
Even though the majority of mansplaining-related situations take place between a man and a woman, there can also be cases of mansplaining towards other men. This normally happens in contexts where competitiveness is very high.
It is also rarer for this phenomenon to occur from a woman to a man. There is no traditional culture that has educated women in this direction. And in addition, several studies have shown that women prefer symmetrical relationships.
Ideas on which mansplaining is based
Depending on the behavior of each person, we can find different variants of mansplaining. They depend on the logic on which they are based:
The biologist
This first example relates to men who consider women to be biologically inferior. According to this logic, the natural inferiority of women would make this condescending and paternalistic treatment necessary. Many men may think that doing this makes them better, more human, consistent, and sensitive.
The majority of studies have not found significant differences between men and women in intellectual performance. This position is therefore not acceptable in most areas, if not all.
The teacher
One final example of mansplaining behavior is, perhaps, the most typical. These people see themselves as smarter than women on any subject. Even on those that concern her more like pregnancy. Or breastfeeding.
Ultimately, behind the majority of mansplaining behaviors, we find a macho attitude because they start from an inferior conception of women. This conception often manifests itself in subtle ways in relationships. Sometimes it is even so subtle that it is difficult to identify it if no conscious thought is given to it.
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