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From: molefeuvre@watarts.UUCP (Michael O LeFeuvre)
Newsgroups: net.women
Subject: Re: using public anger to avoid attacks/harrassment
Message-ID: <8198@watarts.UUCP>
Date: Tue, 8-Jan-85 14:30:15 EST
Article-I.D.: watarts.8198
Posted: Tue Jan  8 14:30:15 1985
Date-Received: Wed, 9-Jan-85 02:06:19 EST
References: <1767@wateng.UUCP> <709@ames.UUCP> <10594@watmath.UUCP>
Organization: U of Waterloo, Ontario
Lines: 23

It is not clear to me whether JAMcmullen speaks of a "cold, deadening
stare" and anger as a constant stance in public places or as a response
to a specific threat.  I agree with Ken Barry that it is not a very 
desirable as a constant attitude towards the world.

Victims of assault (physical or verbal) are chosen by a subtle process 
of evaluation.  If the potential aggressor percieves victim as vulnerable
(mentally or physically), attack is more likely.  That perception can be
prevented by replacing constant fear with constant anger, but constant anger
is not the only way.  Simple absence of fear does a great deal.  

Agression and anger are not the same thing.  Men who attack passing women
with leers or comments are being agressive but not angry or hateful.  If 
women should not introduce anger and hate to the scene as a response if it
is not necessary.  Lack of fear and self-confidence are adequate in most 
cases.

Although I am male, I have dealt with some of this.  When I was sixteen,
I was leered at or propositioned by gay men in several incidents.  
I niether feared nor hated the men in question, I ignored them or answered
quietly and very firmly -- i.e. with confidence.

                           Carlo @ the U of Waterloo