Battle of the Toaster Brains

Toaster in Question
Toaster in Question

Moving away from stereotypes and towards greater gender equality is the desire of numerous authorities in the fields of social and interpersonal relationships as they try to downplay or minimize differences between the sexes.

Unfortunately, they have failed to consider the hard core evidence from men and women who daily face off one another in the battle over brain supremacy. This face off does not take place in the public world, but behind the scenes in the shadows of the domestic arena, where no one will witness the humiliation of defeat.

It’s not a domestic territory marked by this is my domain and that is your domain. It’s the series of little battles that are won when one partner eventually has to give in and admit, on this one point, one or the other is superior.

As every married couple knows life is challenging and frustrating enough and then you have to come home find that a battle line has been drawn on how best to do something. This can lead to hours of not so polite conversation. Eventually a physical demonstration is necessary to prove your point.

Take the example of The Battle of the Toaster Brains.

In my house, my husband and I had decided to sell and relocate. Approximately, at the same time this decision was made the spring action on the toaster lever broke. It was decided that since we would be moving shortly to a second residence that we own, which is fully furnished, it wasn’t necessary to buy a new toaster. So far both parties are in agreement.

Plans delayed. We will not be relocating as planned, but toaster is still broken and we both like to have toast. Wife suggests buying new toaster. Husband decides to make do with old toaster. Stalemate.

Husband solves problem as demonstrated below.

Male Brain Solution - for as long as it takes
Male Brain Solution – for as long as it takes

Wife solves problem as demonstrated below.

Female Brain Solution - it worls. now what's next?
Female Brain Solution – it works now what’s next?

Wife: Problem solved in a right brain creative fashion. End results is still quality toast that requires no more time than it did before when toaster worked.

Husband: Problem solved with left brain brawn. Begrudgingly admits wife’s idea is ingenious but can’t seem to get the spatula handle to remain balanced while the basket holds it in place. Requires wife’s assistance.

By Joyce Hansen