"Calling the derision of Anita Sarkeesian rational debate is an insult to both her and the idea of debating ideas." Writing for The New Statesman, Ian Steadman gives a thorough and well-reasoned rebuttal of many of the most popular arguments raised against feminist critic Anita Sarkeesian ever since she started her Tropes vs. Women in Video Games series.

The essay is admirable for how handily it counters the extreme rhetoric and violent behavior that Sarkeesian's detractors use to decry her work. But, perhaps more importantly, this is a touching, heartfelt cry for a more reasoned and mutually respectful debate about gender and sexism in the modern video game industry. We could all stand to learn a thing or two about that, I think. Please give the piece a close read.