You realize that the "defense mechanism" adage only applies to some misandrists, most of whom are self proclaimed, don't you? Nearly every one is a survivior of childhood sexual abuse. Nearly. every. one.

That changes things. I think you'd agree that given those circumstances, "defense mechanism" is an expression of empathy for suffering. It is not excusing or condoning. It's prioritizing the address of pain and suffering. Because they've been gaslit about it their whole lives.

And yes, some misogynists are misogynists for the same reason. And the same dynamics should apply.

I think we can all agree that childhood sexual abuse is a grevious wound that does not heal on its own or ever completely. You will carry it the rest of your life. That pain comes out in weird ways.