Tango and Gender Interdependence

A sound value system serves the interests of humanity as a whole, rather than those of men or women alone. The two sexes are interdependent. Attempts to sever this mutual relationship in pursuit of an isolated sense of selfhood or independence—whether rooted in patriarchy or feminism—ultimately undermine social harmony. A human-centered value system should emphasize harmony between the sexes and among individuals. In contrast, Western philosophy, grounded in individualism, tends to highlight competition in these domains. Though feminism seeks to address the unequal treatment of women, its perspective remains narrow.

Feminism blindly opposes women's dependence on men, yet this dependence—far from being a flaw—is a product of natural selection, underpinning sustainable relationships that benefit both the species and its offspring. Men and women are, in a fundamental sense, made for each other. Male androgens enhance physical strength and competitiveness, making men effective fighters and protectors. Female estrogen, on the other hand, fosters softness and emotional sensitivity, making women nurturing mothers.

The two sexes are complementary. They possess different biological characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, and perspectives, bearing distinct responsibilities and sharing diverse tasks in teamwork. Each gender offers unique forms of emotional support and companionship, makes distinct contributions, and brings different qualities to a fulfilled life. Happiness for either gender hinges on the presence and contribution of the other. Neither can thrive in isolation.

Women's beauty and delicacy awaken desire in men, encouraging human connection and continuity. Their tenderness and emotionalism complement men’s toughness and strength, fostering mutual attraction. While women's small size and fragility may create dependency, these traits also heighten sensitivity to others’ vulnerabilities, making them exceptional caregivers. Their hormonal fluctuations tied to fertility, and the need for support during pregnancy and childbirth, contribute to this dependence—but it is not inherently negative. Women's delicacy and reliance serve as a crucial incentive for men, making men more responsible, and giving men immense satisfaction.

Men, too, are deeply dependent on women in numerous areas, including romance, companionship, household management, emotional and physical support, parenting, elder care, and much more. Women's qualities—such as soft-heartedness, attentiveness, sentimentalism, attention to detail, and aesthetic sensibility—enrich and complement men's areas where they benefit from women's inputs and contribution. These dynamics strengthen bonds, promote mutual care and empathy, and foster harmonious partnerships built on shared responsibilities.

Masculinity and femininity are desirable and fulfilling qualities shaped by millions of years of evolution, drawing the sexes toward one another. These complementary traits enrich lives, strengthen emotional bonds, and provide a vital foundation for harmony in relationships, contributing to a balanced and cohesive society. By contrast, ideologies that blur or deny these inherent differences—by emphasizing women's selfhood and independence, encouraging them to reject their femininity, imitate masculine traits, or provoke antagonism between the sexes—undermine this harmony. Such approaches erode the natural balance that fosters connection, cooperation, and societal well-being.

The complementarity and mutual attraction between the sexes have long been a wellspring of artistic expression. Tango, perhaps more than any other dance, captures and celebrates this dynamic. Through intimate physical and emotional interaction, tango beautifully balances women's delicacy with men's strength, offering deep satisfaction to both. Women are drawn to tango as it allows them to express dependence and attachment, while men find satisfaction in women's trust and allure (see Balancing Reliance and Lightness in Tango).

Years of observation and experience have taught me that the most profound tango nourishes the innate needs of both sexes, rather than merely dazzling the audience. Skilled tangueras convey women's delicacy and dependence on men while bringing men contentment with their femininity. Similarly, adept tangueros fulfill women's attachment and dependence while allowing their feminine beauty to shine. Mastering these dynamics—and the art of satisfying one's partner—is essential for any tango dancer, regardless of gender, and should be the pursuit of every tango learner (see Artistic Sublimation and Vulgarism in Tango).