Feminism
Feminism is the idea that both girls and boys should have the same rights.
February 23, 2019
Out of 7.53 billion people, around 49.6% are women and 50.4% men. Even with percentages nearly the same, some believe that women’s rights are not equal to those of men. This idea is called feminism. The exact definition of feminism is, “the theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes.”
This idea of feminism promotes the belief that women have the right to do the same things that men do. And that females are able to move beyond stereotypical female activities. This could play into wage gaps and many other aspects in which women are supposedly not receiving the amount of respect they deserve.
However, like many other ideas, there are numerous opinions surrounding this topic. Many people believe that feminism has a significant purpose that benefits our society.
“(Feminism is a good thing) because it makes people treat (others) with fairness, I don’t really think it goes (too) far. It teaches us to be fair with each other, and helps everyone to get along.”
Others have mixed opinions on this topic.
“(Feminism) is a good thing and a bad thing,” said Laila F., seventh grade. ”It’s a good thing because all genders can get equal pay and stuff. It’s a bad thing when people try to take it and (twist it). It goes too far when people say (statements like) ‘this gender sucks and they should all be murdered,’ it (becomes) ridiculous.”
There are times where feminism is misrepresented in the media, bringing about a negative connotation. Some confuse feminism for misandry, but they are not the same at all. Misandry is “dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against men.” This is not the same as “advocacy of women’s rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes.”
These diverse opinions regarding feminism demonstrate the impact in has on our world today. Those who advocate feminism and believe it’s a great thing might enjoy supporting campaigns and advocating for this cause. And for those who don’t, most can at least agree that feminism allows girls to see themselves in a positive light and boosts self-confidence.
“Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength,” said G.D. Anderson, and advocate for women’s rights.
