The quote highlights the double standards in societal expectations regarding behavior based on gender. Women often find themselves under greater scrutiny than men, leading to condemnation for actions that are socially acceptable for men. This persistent inequality reveals the unfair burdens placed on women in various contexts.

In "Morality for Beautiful Girls," Alexander McCall Smith emphasizes the ongoing challenge women face in navigating societal norms that expect them to uphold a higher standard of conduct. The contrast in treatment serves as a critique of the moral judgments that stem from outdated gender roles, illuminating the need for more equitable social expectations.