Customs of 1950s are now considered ‘sexual harassment’
The controversy over alleged sexual harassment by Fox News founder Roger Ailes, who died last week, might be explained by the fact he was a product of the 1950s.
Modern women simply do not realise this is an age-related situation.
Before World War II, few women went to college, so managers were almost exclusively men. Then, in the 1950s and ’60s, women were passed over for jobs because men were considered the breadwinners.
That situation has changed, women are now well educated and they have been sharing the burdens of work equally for most of my adult life.
Back in the ’50s, older men in managerial positions tended to refer to women as “girls” and use the affectionate term “darlin’” or “honey”. These men might on occasion give them a kiss on the cheek or pat on the butt, but they meant nothing by it.
The reverse was also true. Fifteen years ago, the older waitresses at a Reno coffee shop I frequented always called me “darlin’” or “honey” – often putting their hand on my arm during a conversation. I didn’t mind, as they reminded me of my mother.
The customs of the ’50s are now considered “sexual harassment”, meaning the pendulum has swung and common friendship is no longer allowed.
Michael Weldon
