The actual definition of chivalry is thus:

‘The medieval knightly system with its religious, moral, and social code’

Or…

‘The combination of qualities expected of an ideal knight, namely courage, honour, courtesy, justice, and a readiness to help the weak’

As jousting, embarking on a crusade or two and a fondness for round tables has slowly fallen by the wayside (perhaps one of those examples still rings true – I do enjoy a good crusade), the term ‘chivalry’ has evolved. Now we tend to think of holding a door open, giving up your seat on public transport for somebody who needs it more or offering your coat if your companion is cold.

All noble acts.

Apparently though, the aforementioned study feels that these acts of kindness is a way for men to degrade women, as if to say that ladies are too physically weak to open a door for themselves or to stand up for an extended length of time.

I’m sorry, what utter tripe!

Chivalry is not sexist, chivalry does not relegate a lady to the position of subordinate. If anything, chivalry is a man’s way of acknowledging a woman with the greatest respect and care. I don’t hold open doors because women are weak, I hold open doors because it’s a courteous and polite thing to do. And of course, I open doors for men too, although my chivalrous behaviour towards men would probably only extend to doing this. For instance, it is doubtful that I would offer to carry the box he’s pretending not to struggle with or dash around to the other side of the car to let him out (unless the child locks are on).

So there you have it – a full and frank confession that I treat women differently to men. But even in today’s over-sensitive world, I really don’t see anything wrong in taking a moment to show a lady that she is special, even in a medieval sort of way. Providing I stay away from chastity belts, I should be on safe ground.