7 Thoughts Every Feminist Has | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

7 Thoughts Every Feminist Has

It has crossed your mind --at one point or another

6
7 Thoughts Every Feminist Has
girltalkhq.com

How do you perceive the world? As a feminist, I've come to perceive the world in a completely different light than I did five years ago. It's strange. It's as if your eyes have widened and you see society for what it really is. What about you? Do you have these thoughts? Here are 7 thoughts every feminist has:

1. Does this pass the Bechdel test?

���For those of you who don't know what the Bechdel test is, it is a test carried out, usually in movies, that essentially asks whether there are two female characters who talk about something other than a man. Although the passing of this requirement doesn't necessarily imply a female empowering movie, it all goes back to how women are portrayed in the media. When a film fails this simple test, it tells us that these women characters are seen as male dependent and lacking a concrete personality. To give you some perspective, almost half of 2015's top movies failed this basic test. So the next time you watch a movie, keep this in mind. You'll be surprised at the results.

2. Ugh. What is she wearing? No, no. Don't think like that. Slut shaming is bad. Stop.

As a feminist, it's more than common to have two voices inside your head: the voice society has taught us and the voice we taught ourselves. Growing up, we have subtly been taught to shame women of their bodies and peg provocative clothing as "slutty." It's more than common for me to silently criticize and slut shame a woman based on what she's wearing for a moment. It's not only a split second later I realize that this way of thinking is wrong on so many different levels.

3. Why does she have to be wearing absolutely nothing [or doing anything sexual] in that commercial?

This thought plagues me wherever I go. When you become aware of the objectification of women in the media, it becomes pretty obvious that it's prevalent everywhere, especially in advertisements. Cars, chips, alcohol . . . it baffles me so much to a point that it makes me sick. What does a naked woman have to do with a cologne? How does glamorizing domestic violence help sell hair products?

4. WTF is meninism and how could it be a thing?

OK, to this very moment, I honestly have no idea if this trend was created as a joke or a real movement. Some of the sayings are so ridiculous that they're laughable, but the scary thing is that there are so many supporters believing it. They complain about the double standards that plague men and blame "gender equality" and "feminism." It infuriates me to think that there are individuals out there bashing on feminism when they won't take the time to actually learn and understand it for what it is. Just an FYI, feminism is the social, economic, and political equality of the sexes. Not man hating. Not double standards. So please, do us all a favor and educate yourselves.

5. How is that funny?

Rape joke? A comment about women being in the kitchen? Someone makes the joke, and everyone cracks a smile or chuckles. I stand there, horrified and this is what I think of instantly. How is that funny? How does anyone think that's funny? And don't tell me to take a joke, because that is NOT a joke.

6. No feminism isn't about man hating.


You have no idea how many times I have thought this when someone is against feminism. The term you're thinking of is "misandry." (You may have heard of its brother "misogyny"). Just a food for thought, "but I don't hate men," is not a reason why you're against feminism. If anything, feminism is all about respecting and treating both genders the same.

7. You're a feminist! I'm so happy. �

Finally! When someone openly tells me they're a feminist, my heart just fills up with joy. I smile since I realize I don't have to say the same sentence for the 19039th time (Feminism is the social, political, and economic equality of men and women . . .). I gain instant respect for this individual, and I feel myself liking them more and more. Given that they're telling the truth and being honest.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
college shirt

These individuals excel in their studies, fueled by both natural intelligence and hard work. From the ambitious Entrepreneur to the talented Theatre Person, each student on this list embodies a unique aspect of college life and showcases the diverse interests and passions found on campus.

Keep Reading...Show less
Christmas Tree
History.com

Now that Halloween is over, it's time to focus on the Holiday Season. Don't get me wrong, I think Thanksgiving is great and can't wait for it, but nothing gives me greater joy than watching Freeform's 25 Days of Christmas, lighting peppermint scented candles, decking the halls, and baking gingerbread cookies. So while we approach the greatest time of the year, let's watch the 15 best Christmas movies of all time.

Keep Reading...Show less
6 Signs You Are An English Major

There are various stereotypes about college students, most of which revolve around the concept of your major. Unfortunately, we often let stereotypes precede our own judgments, and we take what information is immediately available to us rather than forming our own opinions after considerable reflection. If I got a dollar for every time my friends have made a joke about my major I could pay my tuition. One stereotype on campus is the sensitive, overly critical and rigid English major. Here are six telltale signs you are one of them.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

27 Things 'The Office' Has Taught Us

"The Office" is a mockumentary based on everyday office life featuring love triangles, silly pranks and everything in between. It can get pretty crazy for just an average day at the office.

2959
the office
http://www.ssninsider.com/

When you were little, your parents probably told you television makes your brain rot so you wouldn't watch it for twelve straight hours. However, I feel we can learn some pretty valuable stuff from television shows. "The Office," while a comedy, has some pretty teachable moments thrown in there. You may not know how to react in a situation where a co-worker does something crazy (like put your office supplies in jello) but thanks to "The Office," now you'll have an idea how to behave ifsomething like that should happen.

Here are just a few of the things that religious Office watchers can expect to learn.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

10 Signs You’re A Pre-Med Student

Ah, pre-med: home of the dead at heart.

1779
Grey's Anatomy
TV Guide

Being pre-med is quite a journey. It’s not easy juggling school work, extracurricular activities, volunteering, shadowing, research, and MCAT prep all at the same time. Ever heard of “pain is temporary, but GPA is forever?” Pre-meds don’t just embody that motto; we live and breathe it. Here are 10 symptoms you’re down with the pre-med student syndrome.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments