“Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.” —G.D. Anderson
Imagine the role technology could have played in 60’s and 70’s, when the term “Feminism” breathed-in for the first time in the world of gender inequality and men’s dominance. The level of attention, girls in developing countries could have gathered, if internet was introduced in that era. I guess, the voice could have been much louder while confronting unequal economic, political and social rights of women. But assessing the other side of the coin, that same technology that has empowered us is now pushing us down.
It’s heady to think what modern connective technology could have done for women if it existed years ago and how it’s empowering women and girls around the world today. At the same time, some of the very technology that is moving us forward could also be setting us back by making harassment and exploitation of women easier.
Internet Has Given Women a Voice.
“I’m tough, I’m ambitious, and I know exactly what I want. If that makes me a bitch, okay.” ?Madonna
Women, in general, often feel hesitant to express her opinion or shout for their rights. With the advent of internet and eventually with the consciousness of the rights, women are now confident enough to communicate and voice their opinion. It has taken away the need for permission and has given the ability to connect. Further, they are ensuring that they have equal rights at workplace, home and public, successfully run their own company and eradicate social issues.
Source: bodyforwife
Technology is Setting Women Back
Teenage girls are getting overly-conscious about their body and starving to death to achieve an imaginary perfection that is nothing more than a fad. Moreover, they are validating their look based on the number of likes they receive from people they don’t know. Further, the deadly combination of mobile phones and online ‘want ad’ platforms have made it easier to order a girl than a pizza. And the cases of women being bullied at social sites is innumerable.
Feminist Technology
Source: press.uillinois
Feminist technology: “Technological innovations that would enhance women’s lives through women’s agenda to make them equal” ~ Layne (2010)
To participate equally, women need technologies that empower them and link the digital gender divide. We need feminist technology because feminism also means equality. It’s not that women are incapable and therefore seeking a platform to challenge men. Contrary to this, womanhood is the most beautiful creation of nature, which has been undermined for centuries and demands recognition. Unfortunately, that technological platform is yet to be discovered and it is necessary to find one.
Getting More Women into Technology
“I raise up my voice—not so I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard…we cannot succeed when half of us are held back.” ?Malala Yousafzai
Technology is affecting every section of the society and sooner or later, it will completely transform our lives. Hence, it is essential to incorporate more women in this process regardless of sectors. It’s time to end discrimination in job fields and work designations. This was all about technology and feminism. If you have any opinion to share, please comment in the section below.