Men's ideas about what women are have been formed from their ruling caste position, and have assigned women characteristics that would most advantage their masters, as well as justify men's rule over them. They do not represent 'truth' but have been promoted as if they were, with the backing of science and patriarchal views of biology.
Interpretation
Men's views of women are shaped by their desire to maintain control, rather than reflecting reality.
In this quote, Sheila Jeffreys argues that the ways in which men perceive women are not based on objective truths but are influenced by patriarchal power dynamics. This means that the characteristics assigned to women serve not only to benefit men but also to rationalize the societal structures that keep men in positions of authority. Jeffreys highlights the role of science and cultural norms in perpetuating these views, suggesting that they mask an underlying intent to sustain male dominance.
In practice
In a discussion about gender equality, this quote can underscore the importance of understanding the societal influences on women's representation.
Male domination, and the low and stigmatised status of women, cause teenage girls to engage in punishment of their bodies through eating disorders and self-mutilation. There is increasing evidence that woman-hating Western cultures are toxic to girls and very harmful to their mental health. It is, perhaps, not surprising, therefore, that there seem to be some girls baling out and seeking to upgrade their status.
Life cannot subsist in society but by reciprocal concessions.
If they burn a book, have no worries. The book will feel NO pain so neither should you! True destruction of the Qur'an cannot be done with fire; it is destroyed when we fail to remember & practice its lessons in our daily lives. If this occurs, then it is ANOTHER fire that you should truly be concerned about!
The resurrection is a fact better attested than any event recorded in any history, whether ancient or modern.
Yoga is not a practice - the word 'yoga' means union. It does not mean standing on your head, twisting your body, or holding your breath. Yoga means to know the union of life. When you experience everything as a part of yourself, you are in yoga.
Virtue she finds too painful an endeavour, content to dwell in decencies for ever.
Without doubt, machinery has greatly increased the number of well-to-do idlers.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.