Finally, someone scientifically proves that requiring the males in the household to lower the toilet seat does not minimize “the total cost of toilet seat operations per household.” I have been arguing this point with my wife since the day we moved in together. Now, I have game theory analysis on my side. Unfortunately, because the correctness of leaving the toilet seat up goes against currently entrenched social norms, I don’t see the male gender convincing society that their actions are inefficient anytime soon.
Article: THE SOCIAL NORM OF LEAVING THE TOILET SEAT DOWN: A GAME THEORETIC ANALYSIS
How about alleviating the argument all together and sitting down all the time. It is your personal latrine, should be clean, and you know who has used it. The average cost for both parties would be 0 with optimum happiness.
However, for the sake of argument I agree that it is not fair for a man to have to lower the seat unless the woman raise it after usage. As a compromise I always leave the seat in the down position with the agreement that I will not have to ever clean the toilet.
Comment by Brock Nieuwkoop — 6/6/2007 @ 2:21 pm
Scientifically, your argument makes a lot of sense when it comes to minimizing work. However, the testosterone in me just refuses to accept that peeing like a girl is the answer. Of course, you have been married longer than me… so maybe another few years of marriage will squeeze the last bit of maleness out of me 😉
Comment by Chris — 6/6/2007 @ 7:47 pm
I have long ago discovered myself well trained in the subtle toilet seat etiquette of todays modern world. I haven’t the foggiest idea of the exact instillation date but I find it most useful due to how automatic it has become. If resistance is inevitable for you then I strongly recommend Brock’s compromise. One should always attempt to acquire something in exchange for any services rendered. Bravo, Brock, Bravo.
Comment by Jeremy Kincaid — 6/9/2007 @ 2:40 pm