WEEK 8
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Week 8
Gender equality remains a pertinent issue in the United States despite efforts to reduce inequality levels. Gender bias is a key element in social, economic and political processes both at the local and national level. Disparities between men and women have existed in historical times from the agrarian to the industrial revolution, enlightenment, slavery and colonization periods. Women were perceived inferior, as public participation in education, specific professions and politics were limited. The advent of the 20th Century marked an increase in demand for equal opportunities.
In the contemporary system, gender bias has led to fewer opportunities for women to participate in politics. Their numerical minority reduces the influence of women in local and national issues and policies of prime importance.[1] Wage discrimination at the workplace increases the disparity levels between men and women. Poverty levels among women are high compared to men. However, low quality education among women reduces their level of competitiveness in the job market. Inequality levels are heightened by female stereotypes and perceptions that are dominant within society. Women generally have perceived gender roles[2]. Children receive strong messages about gender identity and roles that influence their perception towards gender equality.
Increasing opportunities for women in education, politics and the workplace is essential to promote gender equality. Education promotes the development of skills for employment and improves the standards of living for women. Increasing political participation among women will boost their influence in local and national policies for development. Promoting awareness among members of society will be instrumental towards the reduction of female stereotyping. These programs will establish a new generation, which recognizes gender equality as an important aspect of social development. These issues will have a ripple effect on levels of equality globally. Innovative solutions, poverty reduction and improvement of living standards from the local scene to the national level will be the ultimate outcome of gender equality.
Bibliography
Kotch, Michael and Sarah Fulton. “In the Defense of Women: Gender, Office Holding and National Security Policy in Established Democracies.” Journal of Politics, 1-16. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2011.
Newman,
Edward and Joanne Van Selm. Refugees and
Forced Displacement: International Security, Human Vulnerability and the State.
American Public University
System, 2012
1Kotch, Michael and Sarah Fulton, “In the Defense of Women: Gender, Office Holding and National Security Policy in Established Democracies.” Journal of Politics. (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2011), 1-16.
[2] Newman, Edward and Joanne Van Selm, Refugees and Forced Displacement: International Security, Human Vulnerability and the State. (American Public University System, 2012), 25.