Apparently, Men Don't Want You to Save the Day
FINE.
The next time you see a guy fiddling on his phone while crossing the street against heavy traffic, let him go. (Not really...but maybe). You can blame it on Karma: According to a new study published in the journal Evolution and Human Behaviour, men don't find women who act "heroically"—like, soldiers in the army—sexually attractive.
Resist the super tempting urge to punch a hole in the wall next to you until we explain. Researchers from the University of Southampton in the U.K. recruited 159 women and 181 men and showed them profiles of soldiers performing brave acts—such as fighting in combat or help victims during a natural disaster—you know, going above and beyond the line of duty. Women got all hot and bothered by the men in these situations; men were not turned on by the females.
Study authors suggest history is the root of this attraction—men have been known to be the more physically and psychologically stronger species (ahem). So, how do they recommend you take this information? "In light of the physical dangers and reproductive risks involved, participating in intergroup aggression might not generally be a viable reproductive strategy for women," they say in a press release. Reproductive strategy? Feel free to go punch that wall now.
Few things here: 1) STFU, 2) #sorrynotsorry for saving your lives, and 3) When it comes to heroism and strength, women are just as fearless and courageous as their XY counterparts. End rant.
You should also check out:
A Feminist Ranking of Female Superheroes
Ageism Be Damned: 91-Year-Old Woman Applies for Tech Job, Nails It
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Dedicated to women of power, purpose, and style, Marie Claire is committed to celebrating the richness and scope of women's lives. Reaching millions of women every month, Marie Claire is an internationally recognized destination for celebrity news, fashion trends, beauty recommendations, and renowned investigative packages.
-
Sabrina Carpenter's Micro Shorts Are a Slice of Fashion History
She was brave to trot it out at the height of winter.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Tom Parker Bowles Says Stepfather King Charles Could be "Fantastic" at Another Job if He Wasn't Monarch
Just imagine.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Cartier Celebrates 100 Years of Trinity With a Miami Pop-Up
A look inside the Art Basel event.
By Michaela Bushkin Published
-
The All-Time Favorite Sex Positions of 11 Real Women
"It makes me feel like the sexiest woman on earth."
By The Editors Published
-
The 22 Best Vibrators, According to Sex Toy Experts
The vibes are immaculate.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Last updated
-
The 20 Best Sex Games for Couples in 2023
Who said game nights need to be wholesome?
By Gabrielle Ulubay Last updated
-
The 14 Best Lubes for Every Need
Good sex should always go smoothly.
By Gabrielle Ulubay Last updated
-
COVID Forced My Polyamorous Marriage to Become Monogamous
For Melanie LaForce, pandemic-induced social distancing guidelines meant she could no longer see men outside of her marriage. But monogamy didn't just change her relationship with her husband—it changed her relationship with herself.
By Melanie LaForce Published
-
100 Sex Songs That Won't Make You Cringe
Dim the lights and hit play on this sex songs — the perfect playlist of songs to have sex to.
By The Editors Published
-
33 Unexpected Valentine's Day 2023 Date Ideas
A.k.a. not dinner and roses.
By The Editors Published
-
How to Stay Safe Using Dating Apps and Websites
Did you know your favorite dating apps may be selling your intimate information? Swipe right on privacy with these key safety tips.
By Jenny Hollander Published