Meaning: The quote you provided is from journalist Michael Kinsley. It appears to be a reflection on a politician's shifting stance on their attitudes towards women over time. The quote seems to compare the politician's public declaration of pride in holding an unacceptable attitude towards women in 1977 to their subsequent claim of not remembering the interview in 2003. This suggests a significant change or lack of accountability in the politician's stance on the issue.

In order to provide a comprehensive analysis, it's important to understand the historical and cultural context of the time periods mentioned in the quote. In 1977, attitudes towards women in politics and society were undergoing significant changes. The women's liberation movement of the 1960s and 1970s had brought issues of gender equality and women's rights to the forefront of public discourse. This period saw the rise of feminism and increased awareness of gender discrimination and sexism.

The quote implies that the politician in question expressed pride in holding an attitude towards women that was not acceptable. This suggests that the politician may have openly endorsed or boasted about views that were disrespectful or discriminatory towards women. This could have been a manifestation of the broader societal attitudes prevailing at the time, where sexist or misogynistic behavior was not always openly condemned.

The contrast with the politician's response in 2003, where they claimed not to remember the interview, indicates a shift in their approach to addressing their past statements. This change may reflect the evolving social and political landscape regarding attitudes towards women and gender equality. By 2003, there may have been greater scrutiny and accountability for public figures regarding their past statements and actions related to gender issues.

Michael Kinsley's commentary on this politician's evolving stance towards their past statements about women raises important questions about accountability, integrity, and the evolving standards for political leaders. The quote suggests that the politician's changing response to their past statements may be indicative of a broader societal shift in attitudes towards gender equality and accountability for past behavior.

In essence, the quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the complex nature of public figures' accountability for their past statements and actions, particularly in relation to issues of gender equality. It also highlights the evolving societal standards and expectations regarding the treatment of women and the importance of holding public figures accountable for their attitudes and actions towards women.

Overall, the quote by Michael Kinsley offers a compelling reflection on the changing attitudes towards women in politics and society, and the evolving standards for accountability and integrity in public figures. It prompts us to consider the importance of holding leaders accountable for their past statements and actions, particularly in relation to gender equality and respect for women.