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There is a long history of manipulating and underrepresenting women's roles throughout human history. I have seen and felt this in many countries, in my own family and other families, across Europe, Asia, and America. Some countries and families show it more than others, but it is present everywhere.
Many people mistakenly believe that Socrates is the sole "Father of Philosophy." In reality, there were influential women like Diotima and Aspasia, who taught Socrates and made significant contributions to Athenian society.
Their impact on political and philosophical discussions has often been downplayed or overlooked by those in power, allowing men to maintain their dominance.
Another example is the women heroes who re pilots in World War II, such as Marina Raskova, Nancy Harkness Love, and Mary Ellis, who were ignored. The underrepresentation of female pilots and other women who played significant roles during World War II can be attributed to several factors:
1- Historical Gender Bias:
During and after World War II, society was mostly controlled by men, and women's contributions were often overlooked. Male pilots and soldiers were celebrated more, while women's roles were often ignored or downplayed.
2- Media Coverage:
The media at the time mainly focused on male heroes because of societal norms and biases. Stories about male pilots, soldiers, and leaders were reported more often, while women's achievements received less attention.
3- Historical Gender Bias:
During and after World War II, society was largely patriarchal, and women's contributions were often overshadowed by those of men. The achievements of male pilots and soldiers were more prominently celebrated, while women's roles were frequently downplayed or ignored.
4- Media Coverage:
The media at the time primarily focused on male heroes, reflecting societal norms and biases. Stories of male pilots, soldiers, and leaders were more likely to be reported, while women's achievements received less attention.
5- Military Records and Recognition:
Military institutions and records have historically been male-dominated. The official recognition and documentation of achievements were often biased, leading to a lack of acknowledgment for the contributions of women.
6- Cultural Narratives:
Cultural narratives and myths about war heroes have traditionally centered on male figures. These stories were passed down through generations, reinforcing the idea that men were the primary heroes of the war.
7- Post-War Societal Roles:
After the war, many women were expected to return to traditional roles in the home, further diminishing the recognition of their wartime contributions. This societal expectation reinforced the idea that their roles were temporary and less significant.
8- Lack of Advocacy:
There were fewer advocates and historians focused on highlighting women's contributions during the immediate post-war period. It has only been in recent decades that more attention has been given to uncovering and celebrating these stories.
9- Limited Access to Information:
For many years, information about female pilots and other women who served in the war was less accessible. Historians and the public often relied on the more widely available and promoted stories of male heroes
It is time to reevaluate historical values and recognize women's roles in our society.
This is not about becoming extreme feminists; history shows that extremes, whether right or left, often lead to disaster. We need to redefine our values in society. Achieving real change requires more than just new laws; it needs a change in our mindset, which is the hardest change to make.
Every change requires energy and sacrifice. Changing our state of mind will not be an easy task. How we can achieve this is another discussion, but there are many things we can do.
For my part, I share what I believe to be the truth, for my mother and the discrimination and injustice she faced, and for all other women. From my point of view, the best place to start making a positive impact on the world is within myself..
