The underlying confusion surrounding the accurate definition and, more importantly, the use of both feminism and egalitarianism, is becoming increasingly apparent. The acknowledgment and understanding of these, simultaneously distinct and similar, ideological movements is lacking. Subjective and individualistic confusion is dependent on how the subjective is built. These seemingly clear-cut ideologies are more interdependent and connected by a mutual goal: equality.
Egalitarianism is defined as both a political and social doctrine advocating the removal of any inequalities of social, economic, racial, and gender in society, emphasizing that all people are equal with the same rights . Egalitarianism automatically encompasses feminism, but feminism does not necessarily encompass egalitarianism. In other words, if you are egalitarian, you are automatically a feminist as well, because egalitarians believe in gender equality. It’s, therefore, unnecessary to specify that you are a feminist in addition to being an egalitarian, if you are the former, you are also the latter, so it goes without saying. Of course, it’s possible to be a feminist, but not an egalitarian, for example, you could believe in gender equality but not racial equality, socioeconomic equality, etc. A racist feminist would be a feminist, but not an egalitarian.
Rooted in misunderstanding, feminism, is often and incorrectly defined including or insinuating the gynocentric theory, becoming the basis of the coined terms such as Feminazi and the notorious #killaman movement. The gynocentric theory is the priority and believed superiority of women’s goals to men’s. Usually involving misandry, the direct hatred, and prejudice towards men, these radical definitions, and ideological assumptions are subject to well-known stereotypes and connotations of “The Raging Feminist”, ever satirized by media.
Feminism is a movement of the elimination of gender roles in the pursuit of gender equality, including, but not limited to women. Primarily focusing on the historically disadvantaged and unjust: women. This focus is most likely, to an extent, seen as justifiable due to the vastly disproportionate inequalities affecting women compared to men; however, that doesn’t disqualify men’s standards by society, as their grievances are just as important. The inefficiencies regarding gender equality as well as its consequences affect all.
Understanding the intertwined relationship of Feminism and Egalitarianism is necessary for creating a foundation of genuine support: exclusively or openly, outspoken or dormant. It’s not a matter of choosing sides or that they should exist, but a matter of unification: creating actual change regardless of ideological standpoints.
