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dany masado

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can we reform the discussion surrounding gender inequality?

As of late, the gender discussion seems to dominate the mainstream discussion on social justice. The alarming trend that I have noticed is that it has become a real battle of the sexes where one side accuses the other of causing its demise, which means any progress for one gender is seen as a loss for the other. I am proposing that we start to reframe the gender debate in a way where we can honestly address issues faced by men without saying "men just don't have as bad", in a way where we can address female issues without saying "women complain too much, get over it.
We must remember that progress in gender justice is (or should be) a benefit for all not a sum zero battle. Often, we get caught up if tallying up a score on who has it worse, rather than finding ways to address issues for both sides, simultaneously.
What will you tell your sons or your daughters when they come to you for advice?

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Topics: Social justice gender inequality politics social change
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    Ata Shirazi

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    Jun 30 2012: I think capitalism is another accomplice. I am not an extreme socialist or something like that but I see how capitalists take advantage of mass media to encourage the women to squander on cosmetics, fashion and many other things that reinforce the traditional stereotypes of women. My impression is that in social democrat countries such as European countries the situation of women is better than liberal countries like USA. It is just my personal impression and I appreciate any debate on it.
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      dany masado 50+

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      TEDx Organizer
      Jul 1 2012: I think capitalism is big accomplice and that's another argument worth exploring. Sometimes the objectification of women in magazines or the representation of fathers and husbands as dumb and childish on TV shows is less about a political statement than it is about financial motivation. This does not make the problem any better, it just means that our spending power can be a very useful tool in shaping the way the media represents or addresses us.
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        Debra Smith 200+

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        Jul 3 2012: I am not so sure they area accompices as much as exploiters of the situation. Did you know that pharmaceutical jobs were really well paying and when they decided to reduce wage costs they admitted women into the field becuse they were so delighted todo the work they would work for much less. This speaks to one of David's main points, I think.

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