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"نمایش جهان، مانند خود جهان، کار مردان است"

Simone de Beauvoir
Simone de Beauvoir Philosopher
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Quote meaning
The essence of this quote is that the way we see and understand the world has been largely shaped by men. It highlights how men have historically dominated the creation and dissemination of knowledge, culture, and societal norms. This isn't just about having more male authors or scientists; it's about how their perspectives have influenced everything from history books to the design of cities.

This idea is tied to historical contexts where men had access to education, power, and the means to record and interpret the world, while women and other marginalized groups were often excluded from these roles. For instance, if you look at the history of science, many female scientists were either ignored or their contributions were attributed to their male counterparts. A classic example is Rosalind Franklin, whose work was critical to the discovery of the DNA double helix structure, but who didn't receive the same recognition as Watson and Crick.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Consider the film industry. For decades, the majority of directors, screenwriters, and producers have been men. As a result, the stories told on screen, the characters we see, and the perspectives that are highlighted often reflect male viewpoints and experiences. Think about the classic action hero—a trope that’s been shaped by male writers and directors. When women began to take on these roles, both behind and in front of the camera, the stories started to diversify. They brought in new perspectives and narratives that weren’t previously represented.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by acknowledging the biases in the information and culture you consume. Seek out diverse voices and perspectives. If you're in a position to create or share information—whether it's writing, teaching, or making art—make an effort to include and amplify underrepresented voices. This conscious effort can help balance the skewed representation.

Imagine you're at a book club. The reading list has always been dominated by male authors. You suggest adding works by female authors, authors of color, or writers from different cultural backgrounds. At first, there might be resistance—it’s easier to stick to the familiar. But as you read these new voices, the group starts to see the world in a broader, richer way. The stories and discussions become more vibrant and multi-faceted.

In sum, the shaping of our world’s representation has been predominantly in the hands of men, which means it's limited in scope. By actively seeking and supporting diverse perspectives, we can enrich our understanding and make space for a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of the world. No need to overthink it—just start with small steps, like choosing a book by a different kind of author, or watching a film by a director from a marginalized group. You'll be surprised at how much your worldview expands.
Related tags
Bias Gender Gender roles Patriarchy Representation Society Worldview
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