I guess the question 'why is feminism important' is secondary to the question 'what is feminism?'
So, here, in a change to the advertised programme, is my answer.
I am only going to offer a very personal definition because there are as many 'feminisms' as there are feminists. And in addition there are many more people who attempt to label feminism with attributes it may or may not possess in reality.
So, my personal feminism comes down to two things.
First, a worldview that sees patriarchal societies and systems with their hierarchies, assumptions and cultures as inimical to the wellbeing of women in particular, and the best interests of humanity in general.
And second, my feminism manifests as a quest to empathise and understand women, especially their circumstances and decisions.
On the latter point - it does not mean that women are free from criticism, or that they can do no wrong. This would be to misunderstand how it works. However, I do believe a little rebalancing is needed in this world - many women already seek to understand - and further - accommodate the priorities of men into their own lives. My take on feminism asks the same in reverse of men. No more, no less.
It wouldn't make for a perfect world, but it is just. And just maybe, in doing this, men would discover how to live life in a deeper, more meaningful way.
No comments:
Post a Comment