Mona Charen joined us at National Conference to discuss the differences between men and women, and talk about her new book Sex Matters.

Charen emphasized that men and women are different in a complimentary way, and both sexes are essential to the flourishing of society. Charen stated,

“I consider myself a feminist in the sense of an equity feminist… I thoroughly believe in the equality of the sexes. There is not one sex that is superior to the other. We are complimentary. But we are different… Some feminists deny that we are different.”

Charen’s book, Sex Matters, highlights the differences between the sexes which gender feminists have sought to erase. Sex Matters draws out the biological, psychological, and sociological differences between men and women. According to Charen, these differences are to be respected and valued, acting as though they do not exist harms both men and women.

According to Charen, feminism’s dismissal of traditional gender norms has ultimately alienated men from women. Men are expected not to enforce gender norms, yet are criticized if they do not conduct themselves as traditional gentlemen. As a result, men are confused about how they should interact with women, especially in romantic relationships. This intense confusion contributed to the hook-up culture we have now. The hook-up culture hurts men and women alike, but especially women. Charen argues that a simple evaluation of women’s biology and psychology will reveal that women suffer because of the culture of casual sex. According to Charen,

“Casual sex is the enemy of love.”

Women naturally want commitment along with their intimacy, which the hook-up culture denies. Yet feminism continues to tout casual sex as a triumph for women.

Women are sold on the lie that sexual freedom and success in one’s career are the keys to happiness. Yet, according to Charen’s research, it can be shown empirically that women have become less happy in the past 50 years despite the increased presence in the workplace, and greater sexual license. Charen argues that feminism has belittled women’s true desires. Women desire security and protection. This is as much of a biological fact as it is a social one. Women are programmed to desire the stability that is required to bear and raise children. There is no shame in wanting security and protection yet, women have been told by feminists that such desires are outdated, unacceptable, and a sign of weakness. In her lectures, Charen stated,

“We have been oversold on the importance of career. It is more important who you choose as a life partner than what you choose as a career.”

Charen’s book validates the deepest desires of women, and her analysis of the current situation certainly resonates. Her lecture was insightful and informative, and those in attendance were inspired to read Sex Matters. Charen’s hot off the press book is available for purchase on Amazon.

Mona Charen is a syndicated columnist, author, and Senior Fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center. Charen served as Nancy Reagan’s speechwriter and later as Associate Director of the Office of Public Liaison.