How does one define feminism? For some, it is empowering and supporting women in what they want to do. For others, it is nothing but misandry. And this is exactly where the whole concept goes for a toss. Feminism is synonymous with equality, not sexism. Feminism operates on grounds that women should be equal to men, both in social standing as well as in terms of rights. But the term is so misunderstood, some women take it to mean that women should be of higher rank than men, and thus should be held in higher regard. Misandry, on the other hand, is the exact opposite of misogyny.

As a feminist, one expects equality, not superiority. Women have been fighting a long battle just to be viewed in the same regard as their male counterparts. Like many other “-isms,” feminism is more difficult to understand because it does not encompass a completely unified set of ideas, but all feminists have one thing in common: they want to work together to bring about a better society for all genders. This concept works to topple the patriarchy system that establishes men in a dominant position. The idea of feminism is to raise women to power while letting the men keep their power.

Feminism is not just a movement for the liberation of women, but a broad social movement striving for the equality of each individual. Feminism emphasizes the importance of values such as co-operation, tolerance, nurturance, and the freedom for each person to achieve his or her potential. Feminists are not against men as individuals. What they are against is the oppressive and outdated social structure which forces both men and women into positions which are false and antagonistic.

Thus, everyone has an important role to play in the feminist movement. It’s a fight against sexism and inequality, not a witch hunt against men or a movement to hate men and treat them as lower beings of the society. This is the crux of the misunderstanding and hence, makes the whole idea a bit more controversial than it should be.

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