I don't really mind people making "outrageous" comments on discussion lists like this. It's a forum, a discussion. But I think that the context of a comment makes a big difference in how it is taken.

Halford's calling boys "little monsters" who pollute little girls' education, although clearly facetious (he calls his daughters, little angels) is not appropriate. Slate is arguably the one of the mostly widely read and respected magazines online. Is it too much to expect some integrity and judgment from its columnists and editorial staff?

The answer, sadly, is yes.

It is possible to talk about gender without being a total jackass.