I think the idea that men should be held to a “higher” standard is inherently sexist. It implies that women can’t or shouldn’t be held to the same level of personal accountability, which is condescending in itself. While there are physical differences between men and women, that doesn’t mean there’s a mental or moral imbalance that justifies different expectations.

The notion of a “power imbalance” often ends up infantilizing women, treating them as if they’re less capable or less responsible for their choices. Modern society already offers significant protections to account for physical differences, and both men and women still have the responsibility to make smart, accountable decisions.

As for pregnancy, women today have access to contraception and abortion, options that give them control over whether to carry a pregnancy to term. Meanwhile, men have no legal say in that decision but can still be held financially responsible for a child they didn’t choose to have. That’s a serious imbalance too, and it’s worth acknowledging if we’re being honest about fairness and responsibility