Where did the concept of men being expected to pay for dates originate from? Why is it still somewhat expected today?
In: Other
Historically, a wife’s role was to bear and rear children, they had few options beyond that. A husband’s was to earn a living and support them. That meant a man seeking a wife looked for features that suited her role, mostly being young and healthy, which translated into beauty. A woman seeking a man with the means to support her and her future children. Giving gifts and paying for things was a way for the man to show his financial fitness.
Society has come a long way since then, but there is still financial disparity and many of these antiquated notions are still embedded in our culture. For good or bad, women are valued for their appearance more than men, and men are valued for their accomplishments more than women. Society expects women to show up for a date with perfect hair, makeup, and designer clothes, men get by with a clean shirt, but are expected to pick up the check.
Latest Answers