Richard Dawkins Cites 'I❤️pissin' on TERFs' Slogan as 'Reeking Advertisement for Toxic Masculinity'

Renowned evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins recently sparked debate with a tweet comparing the slogan "I❤️pissin' on TERFs" to territorial scent-marking by dominant male mammals, labeling it an "advertisement for toxic masculinity." The comment, posted on social media, drew a parallel between aggressive male animal behavior and the rhetoric used by some individuals identifying as women, particularly towards Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminists (TERFs).

Dawkins' tweet stated, "Aggressively dominant male mammals typically urinate to scent-mark their territory. 'I’ll piss where I like.' 'I❤️pissin' on TERFs.' They think they’re women. But can you imagine a better walking, talking, reeking advertisement for toxic masculinity? #SexMatters." This statement is understood to be a critical commentary on the nature of the language used in certain trans activist circles.

The phrase "If you see a Terf punch them in the f—— face," was notably uttered by trans activist Sarah Jane Barker at a London Pride demonstration in 2023. Dawkins has previously referenced Barker's comments, suggesting that such language is more typical of the sex Barker claims to have left. His recent tweet expands on this critique, framing the aggressive sentiment as a manifestation of traditionally male dominance.

Dawkins has consistently argued that the slogan "trans women are women" is scientifically false, advocating for the primacy of biological sex. In his forthcoming book, "The War on Science," he contends that academic freedom and truth are being stifled by diversity, equity, and inclusion policies that prioritize ideology over scientific fact. He has also described the trans-activist community as "astonishingly vicious."

His outspoken views on gender identity have not been without controversy. In 2021, the American Humanist Association withdrew its 1996 Humanist of the Year award from Dawkins, citing his history of making statements that "demean marginalized groups" under the guise of scientific discourse. The ongoing discourse highlights deep divisions in public and academic spheres regarding sex, gender, and free speech.