So on another site I got into a discussion with a feminist about the topic of superhero women and the problems with comic hero representation of women. I refuse to post any copy/paste versions of the conversation as I do not want anyone to be able to Google it and find the original conversation. Instead i will paraphrase. I'm interesting in gauging the reaction of men on this issue.

Feminist: sends Hawkeye Initiative

Me: I don't understand what message I am supposed to be getting from this page. I only see an attractive woman and an attractive man in the same pose, and both are sexually appealing to me. Was I supposed to find the male versions of these drawings repulsive?

Feminist: Yes, because of how little this actually happens to men in comics. Since it only happens to women, you are supposed to find it odd when you see a man assume the same position.

Me: Maybe it's because I wasn't raised in the 1950s where I could only be exposed to one gender being sexualized. I grew up with the internet where any character despite the gender would be sexualized. Rule 34 anyone? Sexualizing men is certainly not "weird" to me because I've been exposed to it thanks to the internet, just as much as I've been exposed to the female versions. That is perhaps why I see no difference in the two variations of these drawings.

Feminist: Well you may not be affected by this tumblr page, but some are! And we need to cater to those who are sensitive to this material by removing and censoring it from comics all around!

Me: Well personally, I see no difference. I do acknowledge and agree in the comic book world, all genders and sexual preferences should be catered to, instead of just the "straight male" preference, and I agree this is something that needs to be balanced. On the other hand, I certainly don't hold a double standard and believe one is acceptable and one isn't.

Feminist: You think BOTH genders should be objectified? You certainly have issues you need to work out. And good for you that you don't personally see a difference between the sexist, but that's the wrong attitude to have, you sound like a sexist, and your attitude doesn't help those who DO see a difference between the sexes!