My feminist girlfriend of half a year thinks seduction tactics are demeaning and pick up artists are misogynists that objectify women. After hearing me advise my friends and roommates, she directed the accusations at me as well. She sent me this article. Though full of gross generalizations that I disagree with, it was still interesting to hear the other side. However, it does raise some interesting questions- is the PUA community feminist? Would you consider yourself to be a feminist? Not as in man-hating, pseudo-feminism found in places like r/SRS; but actual feminism that advocates true equality between men and women.

A few years ago I was insecure, awkward, and lacked confidence. I had very little success with females. Then I found this subreddit and I became empowered, confident, and attractive. Sure, you can use lines and rehearsed routines (I don't, but I don't find them to be demeaning to women either), but when it comes down to it seduction boils down to confidence, showing intent, and making it very clear that you know what you want and you plan to obtain it, whatever "it" may be- a relationship, a career, property, happiness, or success. I have never forced myself upon a girl and I have always taken "no" for an answer. I don't just seek consent, I seek enthusiastic consent. I try my best to be empathetic and sensitive of feelings. I treat my girlfriend like a queen while at the same time keeping her in check and not letting her walk all over me. I respect her and she respects me. What she may not realize is that if it hadn't been for my participation in the "misogynist" seduction community, we would have never met and would not be in the relationship that we both value so much. Yet, when I actually speak of premeditated seduction, it is misogynist predation and the objectification of females. Approaching women, flirting, and seduction is fun- like a game. There are many strategies that can be developed for establishing romantic bonds and implementing them is not necessarily demeaning.

Thoughts?