avatarPatsy Fergusson

Summary

The Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Test proposes a simple rule to ensure respectful behavior towards others, particularly in interactions with women.

Abstract

The article introduces a behavioral guideline known as the Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Test, which suggests that individuals should assess their actions by considering whether they would perform the same behavior towards Dwayne Johnson. This test serves as a tool for men to gauge the appropriateness of their conduct in various scenarios, emphasizing that actions that wouldn't be considered towards someone stronger should not be directed towards anyone perceived as weaker. The test covers a range of situations, from physical contact to professional interactions, and underscores the importance of mutual respect and the avoidance of power abuse in all relationships.

Opinions

  • The author posits that the Dwayne Johnson Test is a straightforward method to navigate the complexities of "PC Culture" and determine appropriate behavior.
  • The test is predicated on the idea that it is inappropriate to take advantage of power imbalances, whether they are based on physical strength or social hierarchy.
  • The article implies that men may hesitate to interact with women due to fear of crossing boundaries, and this test provides a clear standard for respectful conduct.
  • By using Dwayne Johnson as a benchmark, the test challenges men to reflect on their actions and consider how they would treat someone they perceive as physically intimidating.
  • The author suggests that all relationships should be grounded in mutual respect and that the test can be applied universally, not just in interactions with women.
  • The article encourages readers to move beyond toxic masculinity by focusing on the concept of the "Sacred Masculine," which is explored in related readings provided at the end of the article.

The Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Test

How to tell if your behavior is appropriate: a tool for men

Photo from the Daily and Sunday Express

Ever wonder if you’re doing right by your date/wife/friend/co-worker? Confused by “PC Culture” that says you can’t compliment a woman on how she’s dressed? Afraid to take meetings with women because you might accidentally cross an invisible line of appropriate behavior?

Fear no more. Because now there’s a foolproof test you can apply to any situation to find out if you are behaving like a decent human being. Simply ask yourself, would I do this to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson? If the answer is no, don’t do it to your date/wife/friend/co-worker either. In fact, don’t do it to anyone at all.

Consider these common scenarios

  • You’re running in a marathon and spy Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson standing on the side of the road with a microphone, reporting on the event. Do you slap him on the butt in a burst of exuberance?
  • You’ve taken Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson out for dinner and drinks and he’s invited you back to his apartment. But soon after you begin kissing on the couch, he tells you he’s changed his mind. He doesn’t want to have sex. Do you try to force yourself on him anyway?
  • Dwayne enters an elevator you’re riding in. Do you blatantly stare at his groin or ass?
  • Dwayne is describing his idea for a new project. Do you interrupt him to describe your even better idea?
  • Dwayne is doing his job — acting in a scene in a movie. Do you step in to instruct him how you think it could be done better?
  • Dwayne fixes you a dinner of rice and salmon. Do you complain about the menu, telling him you’d rather have roast beef?
  • Dwayne is working on his computer at the office. Do you put your hand on his shoulder as you lean in close to look at his screen?
  • Dwayne asks for a business meeting. Do you tell him you want to meet in your hotel room, then answer the door naked under your bathrobe?

See how easy it is? Dwayne is the perfect ethical test. Because if you wouldn’t behave a certain way with someone stronger than you, you shouldn’t do it with someone weaker, either. It’s never appropriate to take advantage of an imbalance of power, whether it stems from physical strength or a superior position in a hierarchy. Might doesn’t make right.

Sure, if you’re the director of the movie, you might tell Dwayne how to play a scene. But you wouldn’t do that as a bystander. And even as his boss, your authority is limited to the objectives of the job.

So remember: all decent relationships are based on mutual respect, and don’t be a jackass. Be decent. Apply the Dwayne Johnson test.

For further reading…

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