Well, here's the thing, Alexander.  We've had quite a few of these discussions over the years and they always seem to end the same way, with no one understanding the 'other' point of view.  We've lost quite a few female participants over this, which I see to be a bad thing.  

So the purpose of this was not to discuss the burka ban, or even underwear, at all, but to address a meta issue as I said up top, and to perhaps shed some light on the question I quoted: "My question is what makes you[a female] better able to understand their situation than me[a male]?"

I chose to write in a "humorous" way on a fairly frivolous topic (underwear), to perhaps diffuse some already hurt feelings and maybe give some people a way to look at the discussion in a different way.  And of course, you're ALWAYS welcome to participate, no matter if you've been involved or not -- all input is welcome.

The only thing is... I wasn't discussing the burka ban here and don't really care to.  If you'd like to diary your opinions on banning, I'd be happy to participate if I have time.  

But in case you're curious and don't want to diary, I don't believe in clothing bans for many reasons, but mostly because I see it as attacking a symptom and causing more trouble and hurt to the most powerless among us without solving anything, fwiw.  I understand that good people with fine intentions disagree with me.

Maybe we can eventually make language a complete impediment to understanding. -Hobbes