Why JFK fails the modern woman’s gentleman test: A collective female perspective

Answer by The Gentleman:

Hi Puteri Ayuni,

A warm and heartfelt thank you for sharing your collective reflections.

It’s not only encouraging to receive such thoughtful feedback, but deeply meaningful to know that our discourse has found its way into circles of women who care deeply about the moral compass of modern men.

We take your points on President John F. Kennedy with humility and respect. At GC, we often examine figures like JFK through the lens of his contribution to humanity - his resolve during the Cuban Missile Crisis, his inspiration for the youth to pursue a noble career in public service, his poetic vision for space exploration, and the sheer burden of preventing nuclear armageddon. But your ladies' group perspective brings a much-needed balance: that character is not compartmental. That how a man honors the women in his life - his wife, his partners, the women in his orbit- is not a footnote, but a fundemantal interest. A pre-requisite to one's character.

This is why these conversations matter. You judged JFK with a lens of fidelity and emotional integrity, and we judged President Kennedy from the vantage of preventing nuclear Armageddon and a legacy of public service. Both views are valid. And that tension, that respectful clash of frameworks, is what makes the definition of a gentleman worth discussing, challenging, and refining.

As for HRH Prince William - we wholeheartedly agree. Within our community, he has long been admired under our Chivalry & Heroism and The Worlds Most Elegant Man category. The gravitas he carries as a man, a father, a husband, and a future king is immense. And yet, like his mother Lady Diana, he bears it all with grace and dignity. He’s always well-mannered, well-dressed, and well-composed. In him, we do see the best of masculine values - values we hope are mirrored in our community, our readers, and in the next generation of men who wish to be more than just a man.

Your link on online behavior was especially illuminating. At GC, we believe this firmly: a gentleman should behave the same online as he does in person. There is no digital alter ego. Clicking, liking, commenting - these are not trivial acts. They reflect one's character. To honor one’s spouse, mother, or partner is not just about loyalty, it’s about presence, restraint, and reverence - even in the unseen moments of digital life.

Your feedback enriches us. It reminds us that the definition of a gentleman must not be left to men alone to shape- it must be a shared discourse. And it is our continuing hope to keep this dialogue alive with honorable ladies like yourselves, not just for the betterment of GC, but for the betterment of society.

Let’s keep building this bridge, together.

With utmost respect and gratitude,
The Gentleman

P.S. If the gentlemen are reading this: the world is watching. May your clicks reflect your character.

Gentlemen's Code has your back! We're thrilled to announce our brand new section on our website: "Ask the Gentleman." Submit your burning questions on all things refined living, health & fitness, relationships, culture, style, and etiquette by emailing editor@gentlemanscodes.com.

Please note:

1. We no longer accept letters on marital or divorce issues.

2. We do not entertain unconstructive correspondence or hate speech.