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.
Claiming for ourselves liberty of conscience, liberty to worship, we shall see to it that every other individual enjoys the same right.
For nothing is more democratic than logic; it is no respecter of persons and makes no distinction between crooked and straight noses.
The historical mission of our times is to re-invent the human—at the species level, with critical reflection, within the community of life-systems, in a time-developmental context, by means of story and shared dream experience.
We've had enough." He took back the report and jammed it under his arm. "We've had a bellyful, in fact." "And like everyone who's had enough," said Control as Alleline noisily left the room, "he wants more.
But I'll tell you what hermits realize. If you go off into a far, far forest and get very quiet, you'll come to understand that you're connected with everything.
Every now and then, a person must do something simply because he wants to, because it seems to him worth doing. And that does not make it worthless or a waste of time.
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