Just to be up front, I'm married for over 20 years. I have both a son and a daughter/ I really don't have a dog in this fight. (not fighting really, I hope you understand what I mean).
However in the context of gender equality, it confounds me that our dating traditions are still stubbornly patriarchal. I wonder why romance is still predicated on the man picking up the tab. Additionally, I find it strange that the man is considered broke or cheap because he doesn't pick up the tab for both him and his date, while we (as a society) don't judge the woman financially at all. That does not sound like equality to me. Finally, young men often do not have much disposable income, as it takes time to find a career and train for it and land your first job.
Below are some reasons why I personally oppose the default of men paying for dates:
Gender Stereotypes: This assumption reinforces traditional gender roles where men are seen as providers and women as dependents. Equal rights aim to dismantle such stereotypes, promoting the idea that both men and women can share financial responsibilities equally.
Financial Burden: It places an unfair financial burden on men, assuming they must always bear the cost of social interactions. This can be seen as unequal treatment, as it does not consider the financial capacity or willingness of both parties involved.
Power Dynamics: Paying for dates can create an imbalance in power dynamics, where the person paying might feel entitled to certain privileges or decisions. In contrast, equal rights advocate for balanced and respectful relationships where both parties have an equal say and responsibility.
Independence and Agency: Assuming that men will pay undermines the financial independence and agency of women. It implies that women are not capable of contributing equally, which goes against the principles of equality and mutual respect in relationships.
Expectations and Entitlement: This assumption can lead to expectations and a sense of entitlement, where men might expect something in return for paying. Equal rights promote relationships based on mutual respect and consent, free from transactional expectations.
