Sexism and Conflict Perspective

Webster’s dictionary describes Sexism as, “prejudice or discrimination based on sex, especially against women.” Conflict theory is a paradigm that is deeply rooted in the want or desire for suppression, unlawful gains through capitalism, slavery or other means and creating a divide or inequality resulting in conflict. According to Megan Seely, "Conflict theory is defined as the powerful or elite leading or working to oppress the weak" (Seely, 2012). Sexism in my opinion could be an ideal example of the conflict theory fitting into not all but most of the categories defined in Conflict theory. Some societies may not consider it as sensitive as racism or socioeconomic inequality, but in major part of the world it is still significant enough to be discussed.

Sexism is not a new phenomenon, it was in existence ever since humanity can be traced back.  Since time immemorial, men around the world, have been perceived as more aggressive, dominant and ambitious while women as more nurturing, acquiescent and submissive.  Culture as we perceive it is everything shared by a group of people and is transmitted across generations.  And one norm of the culture is to define the gender roles-which is laying out a set of expectations about the way men and women comport. Most cultures are associated with distinct gender roles for men and women. Traditionally the role assigned to women  are gentler, requiring less power/energy like performing household work or child rearing and are therefore considered inferior or given less importance compared to the roles played by men, which requires more power or masculinity. Women have always been considered the weaker sex and as early as 1970 were considered to have the inability to take up elite professions such as scientists, lawyers, or politicians.  

Even in present times, men have still not accepted or rather feel threatened by women,  professionally and/or intellectually equal or superior to them.  Some argue that in the last few years there has been a change in the societal perception and women now have equal rights at most places. But we can still see that not being true, especially in undeveloped nations, no equality between sexes and even inequality within the marriage. Legally, women may have equal rights in jobs and education; but even at home front it is still a very different scenario. It is still considered a woman’s job to provide for the family and take care of the needs of everyone. In many cultures women are required to take care of even the needs of the extended family members on the husband’s side, while no such roles are assigned to the husband.  If at any point a sacrifice is to be made for the family it is expected to come from the woman’s side.

In past few decades, women have come out of their traditional roles, tried to make a mark in the outside world and have proved themselves time and again, yet the bias or we should say gender divide still continues. The concept of glass ceiling and wage difference between men and women is a secret no more……very well fitting in the paradigm of conflict theory.