The 'f-word'. I'm not talking about swearing, but about feminism, a word with increasingly negative and unfair connotations amongst men. But what exactly is feminism, and how does it differ from misandry?

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What are feminism and misandry?

According to the Cambridge dictionary, feminism is defined as the belief that women should be allowed the same rights, power, and opportunities as men and be treated in the same way, or the set of activities intended this state. This essentially means that people of all genders should be on the same, level playing field with the same rights and freedoms.

On the other hand, misandry refers to feelings of hating men. This is basically the opposite of misogyny, the systemic hatred and prejudice against women, although misogyny is more widespread. Misandry can be explained as women's hatred of their oppressors and presents itself through bullying and violence.

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Why do many associate misandry with feminism?

Unfortunately, due to unfair stereotypes, many people have come to associate feminism with the blind hatred of men. Protests that raise awareness about femicide are seen as attacks on all men, campaigns about equal opportunities are perceived as taking opportunities away from men, and any talk of feminism is deemed offensive towards men.

These misconceptions aren't anything new, though. In the early 1900s, suffragettes were accused of trying to meddle in and ruin the "man's world" of politics and economics. Works by authors and artists involved in second-wave feminism were censored and branded as propaganda for "anti-male" views. From the late 1980s to the early 2010s, activism for intersectional feminism were seen as "overly woke" and attacking Caucasian males.

With the rise of toxic masculinity online, partially due to misogynistic influencers, more and more people are increasingly assuming that all feminists show hatred towards men. Although "toxic feminism" does exist, it would be unfair to generalise all feminist as being like this; this untrue belief is only leading to more hate and prejudice in society, both online and in real life!

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Meaningful Ways to Practise Feminism

Luckily, there are numerous ways to practise feminism and advocate for gender equality without alienating men.

1. Know that you are worthy and equal

Cliché as it may sound, regardless of your gender identity, it is important to remind yourself that you are worthy of love, kindness, and respect. Likewise, you should remember to treat everyone else with that same attitude — we are all human beings first and foremost!

2. Call out sexism when you see it

Daunting as it may seem, it is very important to call out sexist or prejudicial behaviours when you see them. Even if it may seem like an insignificant comment, these can easily progress into more serious and harmful behaviours! It is paramount to create safe spaces by stopping sexism at the start.

3. Educate yourself

The key to feminism is understanding the experiences of other women, as well as how you can advocate for them and yourself. Reading feminist blogs, books about gender equality, or even online magazines like this one can help you empathise with others and fully comprehend why feminism matters. Even just reading the news to know what is happening in this space is valuable!

Feminism is constantly evolving, and in order to practise it respectfully and inclusively, we must keep learning more about it.

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4. Stop yourself from judging women unfairly

We all do it sometimes: judging a woman based on what they wear or who they date. Society has ingrained in us, from a young age, the notion that a woman must dress and act a certain way to be accepted by society.

This is why it is especially important to check ourselves when we do this. Remind yourself that being a woman is not the same as conforming to prejudiced gender roles, and encourage other to do the same!

5. Make your voice heard!

In a sea of conflicting opinions and societal norms, it can be hard to have your opinions heard. Never forget that they are valid and important!

Whether it may be through attending a women's rights march or simply making sure you say your piece at a meeting, speak up about the issues you are passionate about. Just make sure that you are doing so in a meaningful and respectful manner.

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Conclusion

The notion that feminism equates to hating men is causing troubling polarisation in society, with many people "taking sides" as being for men, or for feminists. However, feminism is all about inclusion and equal rights for everyone regardless of their gender and identity.

We must work together to educate people, foster positivity, and create safe spaces if we are to, once and for all, dispel the notion of feminism and misandry being the same thing.