One of my favourite topics....
The most common definition of feminism states that it is 'a doctrine that advocates equal rights for women'.
That was probably how feminism, as a concept, got a kickstart. Later on, various types of feminism emerged, focussing on every aspect of life, and provided the 'feminist's view' on things that varied from education to what later came to be known as 'socialist feminism'.
As with all movements, or concepts that were nourished in people's minds for over decades, feminism drew its own set of 'extremists'. These were proponents of feminism in its most extreme form, advocating a life that totally centered around career often labelling marriage as a 'way to slavery'.
In today's world, where there are many 'liberal feminists', some issues still exist. As far as India is concerned, although women empowerment is observed in many areas, much needs to be done. This might well turn out be a Herculean task , in a society which, traditionally, does not breed feminist virtues.
There are still women who are being deserted and those being simply used as objects of pleasure. A logical and practical alternative needs to be considered to stem these injustices. Education is an important factor. It brings a sense of self-worth and improves one's sense of judgement pivoted on the stronghold of reason. Financial independence provides a sense of security. These two, combined together, lend women the courage to face life head on.
Over the years, the ideals of feminism have been diluted and modified to suit different needs. The cry to ban fashion shows is one such. Ideally, everyone can choose their profession. If the models are fine with taking to the ramps, I don't see why anyone should object. Such variations make the definition of feminism relative wrt people, the society in question and of course, time.
In my opinion, feminism should not be distant concept or an idea awaiting implementation by NGOs or the Govt., it should be a way of thought that permeates through all ranks of society and is expressed by all individuals, be it male or female.
This calls for a drastic change in the mindset of the society. A quantitative analysis of women empowerment does not help the cause of feminism as we perceive it. What is needed is a qualitative assessment of women empowerment plans.
6 comments:
If you are serious about what you are saying, first feminists (I always wondered why there are no masculanists) should stop comparing female rights with male rights. Stop requesting to be treated as equal rather take away more rights than men. Dont request from men because we are not ready to give out our advantageous position, it is upto you girls to grab it from men.
Why shouldnt there be any comparison? Human beings are all equal, and unjustified, non-scientific disparities should not exist..!
Stop requesting to be treated as equal ?!! I thought it was about creating awareness (among individuals of a society) and helping women find their way ..! I am sure you'll appreciate that 'requesting for equality' and creating an awareness are two entirely different things!
we are not ready to give out our advantageous position?!?!?! I dont think I understand...What advantage are you talking about?!
I know requesting for equality and creating an awareness are two entirely different things but the problem is most of the feminists are trying to create an awareness by requesting for equality. Which, in my mind, is not the way to go about it.
Advantageous position: Women are requesting for equality and men don't.
At the risk of sounding hardcore chauvinistic, as of now this world is dominated by men in many areas. Instead of carrying out protests, creating awareness or requesting for equality I think women should take things in hand and turn the table.
Welcome back!
Complexity (of thought and action) is powered by evolutionary engines!!
Superiority, as is reflected in the customs and practices of the society, doesnt leave a great evidence to suggest women are superior..quite the opposite in fact..!
And yes, your commenting style hasnt changed one bit..!(you might want to be optimistic!) ;)
thanks for your comments anyway!
I am sorry but couldn't resist asking this stupid question. I browsed your profile and it says "uselessknowledge.com"
Is it "use less knowledge" or "useless knowledge"?
=)) depends on the situation..!
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