[GoldenRacer]

And if you do read that old book it has a lot of overt sexism and to me it felt like some sort of incel fantasy (I really enjoy older scifi so understand times were different back then but Stranger in a Strange Land felt over the top). So now I associate that word with all the problematic aspects of the book and assume the person using it is either using the word without having read the book or didn't see a problem with the book when they did read it. Neither really makes me think highly of the person.

[what-the-grump]

The book was progressive for its time, shocking to publishers for openly discussing sexuality, religion, establishment.

People reading it 60 years later and finding it sexist I think are projecting a bit of their own insecurities. Considering the book, the current dominant religious institutions on the planet, the scriptures behind those beliefs and institutions, and what’s been going on in America over the past 4 years as far as women’s rights.

[GoldenRacer]

“Pipe down, Anne. Close your mouth, Dorcas. This is not a time when women have the vote."

I'm projecting insecurities because I think interactions like that are sexist?

[what-the-grump]

>So now I associate that word with all the problematic aspects of the book and assume the person using it is either using the word without having read the book or didn't see a problem with the book when they did read it. Neither really makes me think highly of the person.

You cannot separate the book and person reading the book. Its ok to disagree, its ok to have different views.

[GoldenRacer]

Where are you getting the idea I can't separate the book from the person reading it? I've personally read the book. I have no problem with people reading it or even enjoying it.

My comment was on people who are regularly referencing the book by using the word "grok". When you do that, you are intentionally associating yourself with the book and implying other people should read the book if they don't want to feel left out.