Quote:
Originally Posted by Smithy
Yeah, thats why i put the other definitions in the OP, it's just misandry masquerading as feminism
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Sadly though, I think in the "internet generation" the term has been hijacked to the extent that it is now quite toxic and in some situations, almost interchangeable with misandry. In my opinion, the entire concept of seeking
equality for the sexes under the banner of either sex is sort of missing the point. Yes, women have historically been more oppressed than men, however, it would also be true to say that there are many modern examples of men "coming off worse" in terms of sexism:
Many young women have the mistaken impression that it is "OK" for a female to hit a male but "shocking" for a male to hit a female. It's not surprising that they have this impression, just look at Hollywood and "romcom" style films... you will frequently see women slapping men across the face being played "for laughs", and the implication is usually that he's done something to "deserve it". So the female star belts him one and walks off looking self-righteous and the male is left there obviously "ashamed" by his terrible actions and "accepting" that he deserved a slap. Now, turn that on it's head and have the male character whack the female across the chops. All of a sudden it becomes a dark tale of abuse, and people would be walking out of the cinema in protest.
Of course the reality is that it's not "OK" for EITHER partner in a relationship to be smacking the other around. Ever.
So, essentially what I'm saying is, regardless of history there are CURRENTLY, in the western world, negative inequalities on both sides that need to be tackled. I'm just not convinced at all that it can be done properly without the terminology being changed to be as it should be if it's to be truly equal: i.e. gender-blind.
I have no problem with people flying the banner of feminism on behalf of areas of the world where women are still genuinely oppressed in the most basic of ways. I just think that what needs to be focused on here at home to find equality is at this point, is actual equality, common ground, rather than an inherent suggestion that it's just women who need protecting / elevating in order to achieve equality.
Not least because there is currently a massive anti-feminist backlash in many areas, and part of that is down to men all too often feeling villainised and therefore becoming defensive. Is it a bit stupid that they do become defensive and lash out? Of course, but unfortunately "stupidity" and "ego" are huge parts of the human condition... so, I don't think it matters that it's stupid. All that matters is moving forward... the term "feminism" feels loaded, and what it's actually come to represent is NOT the definition in the OP. I think the quest for equality is going to be somewhat "stuck in a rut" until the language of equality becomes neutral.