As someone who grew up mainly in the 90s, many of the societal norms I learned can be attributed to one of two main sources: Cool (e.g., Saved by the Bell and The Fresh Prince) and Uncool (e.g., Full House) TV shows. Although many positive social changes have been introduced over the last half century, as taught by mother TV, I think there are some supposed proscriptions that attempt to redefine what the dictionary already defines clearly. 

For example, one might conclude that it is sexist to use the word “he” to refer to an individual of unknown gender.  I have had english teachers attempt to codify a style rule for this situation, so that you use “they” to refer to such an individual; others have suggested using the more prolix “an individual” or “the person.”  The problem with using “they” is that “they” is plural, where “he” is attempting to address something in the singular.  The other suggestions violate the law of syllabic conservation.

“He” or “she” can certainly be used as anaphora.  Why not as a generic reference?  The truth is, you don’t have to reason about it: Webster already defines “he” as “used to refer to a person of unspecified sex.” By the way, “she” also includes the same definition allowing for gender-neutral references.  

PS, I got the definition while reading DeGroot “Probability and Statistics”, 2nd ed.