In more and more public places, on metro subways and in church pews, men can be found donning the neckwear that has its roots in 18th century France. How do you explain the increased interest in bow ties?

In one sense, it reflects the inherent conservatism that has always defined male culture. This is a rebellious conservatism at its core, one that opposes 30 years of the sexual revolution, the sloppy casualness of baby boomers, the general feminization of the Western male, and (especially) the stupid metrosexual trends now emerging in the public square. To all of these bad developments, the bow tie wearer declares, by his very appearance, Enough! To wear a bow tie is to declare secession from every bad social trend rooted in the 1960s which demeans civilization today.

And this is all to the good. Those who stand athwart history tend to define it, and it is far better to have it defined by the thoughtful bow tie wearer than today's brain-gelled, I-Plugged, baggy-jeans wearer fresh from having his back hair removed. In an increasingly competitive, globalized economy, character will matter, with the foundation of character reflecting how one chooses to present himself to others.

Seen in this light, to wear a bow tie is to exhibit respect for one's self and those around him. It acknowledges that striving for perfection is an essential element, not only for professional success, but for personal development and a meaningful life as well.