I do well enough with women where I don't feel the need to self-censor my opinions on things. They're free to disagree, and carry an open dialogue with me. I enjoy hearing alternative perspectives on issues, and we actually had a decent conversation which led to a solid night out overall. Confidence is key in any sort of relationship, and I can't be confident if I'm worrying whatsoever what the other person is thinking of me - especially on a first date.
No one said you have to do anything. But honestly, complaining about how a date didnt go well because you went all cops are bad isn't worth sympathy. The way you are describing the encounter, this is a you problem more than anything. Again, be however you want but dont complain about the obvious end result.
This doesn't change the fact whatsoever that dating is tiresome
Sure it does. You ever think that maybe the way you approach topics contributes to your dating success? Again, you complained the whole encounter was awkward. From your description you made it awkward.
And I'm not exactly enamored with the idea of shacking up with a cop lover.
Neither would I but I dont go full blown all cops are bad and quote statistics on date one lol. If you can't see the obvious issue here then there are bigger issues at play you are openly ignoring.