Setting the Record Straight: Seven Misconceptions About Feminism in the Arab World
Feminism is an ideology that aims to challenge the patriarchal societies that view women as second-class citizens. It strives to eliminate this stigma and educate different cultures that women are equal to men in every facet of life. However, we must exercise tremendous caution because feminism is being misunderstood in many places, and a lot of misconceptions have emerged. Therefore, we’ll look at the top 7 feminism myths that have been circulating in the Arab World.
Feminism is about giving men less rights
This is a popular one since many men in the region believe that feminism’s ultimate purpose is to ignore men’s rights and make them inferior to women, and treat them badly. However, this is not the case; all sexes have equal rights and should be treated equally.
Feminism also attempts to advocate for women’s rights based on gender equality. It does not seek vengeance on men. Feminism is solely concerned with patriarchy and the notion that males are superior to women.
Only women can be feminists
Another common misunderstanding is that feminism is solely for women and that males cannot support it or embrace it. This is completely untrue! Feminists can be men who support the cause. It’s both common and not unusual because many men believe that women should and must be treated equally to them.
In an ideal world, we would all be feminists and support the fight to remove patriarchy and gender stereotypes, which frequently result in poor and destructive effects for all genders.
Male feminists are working against their own gender
This is not the case at all, because feminist males are men who seek equality and justice for all genders, not just one. This is a common misunderstanding that causes many men to be criticized for their views and conduct. It is not a battle between the genders, but rather the concept of standing up for what is right and wrong.
Feminists don’t believe in marriages
People who believe this believe that feminists are just interested in power and independence from men. This is entirely incorrect, as marriage is a very personal decision that some people consider while others do not. It has nothing to do with the gender of the individual.
Feminists are career-oriented
Another ludicrous myth is that feminist females are particularly career-oriented due to their feminist perspective. Having a career is another personal choice that both genders can make. Feminism is about success and equal opportunity for all women, but it does not dictate whether women should work or not. It’s simply the concept that we all deserve equal opportunity and the freedom to live our lives as we see fit, without being judged or criticized for it.
Feminists support women unconditionally
This is another ludicrous misunderstanding that may be found all over our culture. Feminism does not suggest that all women should be supported regardless of their views, because some are prone to reactionary beliefs, such as not believing in equal rights. A person should be evaluated based on their character regardless of gender.
Feminism seeks matriarchy
Many people have mistakenly associated feminism with matriarchy in the past. As a result, many people feel that feminists are simply interested in gaining power, which is false! Both matriarchy and patriarchy are societal structures that place one of the genders in charge. However, this is not what feminism aspires to do. Feminism aspires to create a society in which males and females can coexist without fear of gender superiority.
