If you have an argument to make, use your own words.  

I think those who make general assertions about the world should expect to have them challenged.  That does not imply all assertions are wrong.

I think people should be encouraged to write about their personal experiences.  I do not think personal experiences can or even should be challenged in the same way.

And most of all, I don't think MY OPINION is proof of anything one way or another.  

Oh, and I will add that it appears to the casual observer that some female diarists have been asked to contribute more, have been assured that their contributions are welcome, and you guys are trying to make it all about yourselves.  Anyone is free to comment, but it not a matter of rules, but tact and perspective.  I mean, Fran asked all the women to comment, and the thread became dominated by men.  Please, sometimes it is best to try to understand someone's attempts outside of how they relate to you.  There is something called Active Listening.  I find it absent in some of these conversations.  The fact that I see a pattern of female posters having to ask to be able to speak for themselves is deeply disturbing to me.  

"Pretending that you already know the answer when you don't is not actually very helpful." ~Migeru.