tangents

news & views

by del mcintire

In Washington, D.C., a Handbook for Careerists, distributed to 25,000 school boys, which gives tips on how to get ahead in business, has caused many howls of protest from so called "he-man" fathers who take exception to the "official" advice. Sample offending suggestions are: Inquire about girdles for men. "This will help you keep that young, slim athletic look."

Dab perfume behind the ears"Just a touch of mild fragrance."

Make-up with masculine cosmetics if you have the sort of face. that needs it.

Angry fathers are demanding the calling-in of the book. Many have written to the president (although he may be taking the advice himself, such is his success).

Meanwhile the Washington education authorities, while admitting it might not present "too good an image of the American man," refuse to withdraw the handbook. In fact, the author, sociologist, Mrs. Ruth Bates, remains completely unperturbed. "Obviously," she said,

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"these parents are not aware of the patterns of success in modern America."

Mrs. Bates, who has a son aged 11 (presumably following mother's advice), went on "In the executive class today men cannot get anywhere unless they pay a great deal of attention to personal grooming.

"That means wearing foundation garments if necessary, discreet toilet lotions and manicured nails.

"There is nothing sissy about it. The American man is not effiminate just because he Uses cosmetic grooming aids to personal attractiveness.

"Why do so many Americans look young compared with Europeans of the same age? They work at it!

"Those trim, middle-aged American executives who look so young and vital and are envied in Europe, are probably wearing foundation garments."

Youthful good looks has always been the weakness of the homosexual male, Mrs. Bates.

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