Congratulations on knowing nothing about women, John. I guess it's easier to target them as the enemy then to put a little effort into understanding the superior gender. My counterpart's critique of everything wrong with women only degraded and disrespected them.

I could play the same game, but I don't want to. There are a lot of creeps, players and losers out there. But at the same time, there are some stand-up, remarkable guys. Maybe my counterpart should take a lesson from one. A man who respects women is so much more attractive then one who feels equality means forgetting how to treat a lady.

Somewhere in the past 30 years, some men have forgotten about chivalry. I hate it when a guy doesn't have the courtesy to open my door and cites it as women's liberation. Reclaim your manhood, please. I didn't give up my feminine qualities a result of equal rights.

When it comes to dating, most men are far from perfect gentlemen. When did asking a girl out on a proper first date turn into, "Hey, stop by next weekend, I'm having a party."

Also, guys tend to get themselves in the dog house. They play games like stringing a girl along just in case someone better struts in.

Plus, men are notorious for making stupid and insensitive comments without thinking. Most of which are avoidable by paying a little closer attention and actually listening when a girl talks.

Maybe John is intimidated and threatened by the reality of women in the business world. Today's women can be CEOs of companies, political activists, and world-changing figures. Women are addicted to the television series Sex and the City because it shows that modern women can be powerful, sexy, and still expect to find a top-notch, respectful man to love them.

Equality means that women have stepped out of the kitchen, strapped on a pair of fabulous stiletto heels and began to explore the endless opportunities available. I'm beginning to think expensive shoe obsessions stem from years of hearing the term "barefoot and pregnant."

Let's face it. Guys cannot live without women — you need us and love us. Women add spice to men's lives with a little drama and excitement. In fact, I bet the boys who are currently having girl problems or enduring a dry spell are the ones who think John hit it right on. Poor John — I can't imagine any girl falling for his lack of charm now.

I'll end this battle the right way. "Nobody will ever win the battle of the sexes. There's too much fraternizing with the enemy" (Henry Kissinger).

This viewpoint was published in The Marquette Tribune on October 13, 2005.