FEMINISM – STILL A THING OF THE FUTURE?

One might begin by saying that feminism is a concept not to be acknowledged by the faint hearted. Many women have the tendency to use the term in a rather vague and ambiguous way with views which seem to be pro-feminist of which are followed by an  insistent belief that they are not defined in any way by the label ‘feminist’. This could be the result of the negative stigma surrounding the term which suggests that those who are feminists are nothing but man-haters, set on getting their own way. Thus, only those who truly believe that equality in all sectors in the fight to abolish the persistent superiority and domination of men, should drop this term into conversation and be entirely prepared for immediate retaliation from those men who see this concept as a direct attack on what has always been, and what should always remain, so to speak.

The term ‘feminism’ is a powerful term concerning the need for women to affirm the equality of both sexes in social, economic and political matters. It is important to point out that this term can be a conversation starter but inevitably a breaker, lurking behind the curtain, waiting to pounce on the unexpected male who will quite happily bestow his manly views on the power of male opinions but undoubtedly would be cast down by the ever determined female who likes nothing more than to torture a male about the continuing independence and recognition of women in the twenty-first century, but also their struggle for total equality.  Therefore one can pose the question: is feminism still a thing of the future? One might argue yes, it is, and it will continue that way until women have their way with equality in every division. On the other hand it could be viewed that the extent to which this battle of the sexes could ever be solved is utterly limiting, suggesting that the power divide will continue and the uproar feminists pose on politicians will only get stronger. The yearn for gender equality in the workplace is one of the most significant battles feminists have with society, with many women being passed over on promotion in favour of a male colleague, who is unlikely to suddenly announce they are pregnant and take up to a year’s statutory maternity leave of which they are entitled to.

However, the number of domesticated men who take on the traditional roles of women is increasing, suggesting that perhaps this is the answer to what all feminists’ desire. Yet one cannot ignore the underlying fact that by defying tradition, we are taking away the traditional methods of life and instead replacing them with an alternative. This, in itself, could be seen as a form of feminist movement, with the world becoming more advanced and modern ideas and views becoming more widely accepted, there is perhaps great hope for female enterprise and equality and less demand for the stereotypical businessman in a black suit.

-Olivia