Double Standards Still Exist
Double Standards: Still Exist One might say that men and women in this country are equal. Although society has come a long way in granting gender equality double standards still exist. These double standards regarding the different genders weigh down our society and negatively affect our nation’s course of equality and freedom. Both men and women are an essential part of society with an equal capability for success. Unfortunately due to stereotypes many are held back from reaching their potential. Generally women seem to be more negatively affected by double standards.
For example, there is a sexual double standard. Sexually active men are often congratulated with a “pat on the back from Dad for hooking up with a girl”(Keehn pg1). Not only is it revolting to know that men are given high-fives for taking the first step in a relationship, it is wrong to know that women are considered a ‘slut’ for performing in the same behavior as the admired men. (Griffin pg1) Bruce Griffin continues by stating, “As guys, we seem to like [sex] so much, so I’ve never thought it was different for women, but it’s not nearly as OK [for a women] to be open about it. As a result, the world must view men and women alike to stop the sexual double standard. Women have the right to have sex without being ridiculed after the fact. It is a necessity for all people to be treated the same, no matter their actions or the gender. Moreover , women are faced with a double standard in politics. According to the September 2009 Japan Times edition, “Women need to be three or four times more qualified than a man just to hold the same position. ” In other words, women need to work harder at their careers and in turn are faced with more challenges for the same job as a man.
Only 17 percent of the members in the members in the US congress are women. This in turn ranksthe USA 83rd out of all the countries in the World. Kumiko Shindo, a social sciences professor at the Toyo Eiwa University stated, “Politics is often controlled by men who are wrestling each other for the power, but women are able to apply common sense and obtained from everyday life. ” Therefore we should have more women in office. This in turn will provide more balance on views given. “Prominent female representation in olitics is crucial because women are often considered reformers who advocate for cleaner politics and peace, and speak up on such issues as human rights and medical matters. “(Shindo pg4) Not only is it harder for woman to obtain a position in politics, it is hard for a women to be judged solely on her views, not her wardrobe. (Brazile) Women are expected to be dressed in a attractive manner and present passionate speeches. Unlike congresswomen, congressman will never be criticized in front of the public for wearing the ‘wrong’ suit.
It may seem that double standards only affect women, but this is not the case. An example of inequality towards men is the legal consequences regarding statutory rape. Robert N. Convissar, a criminal attorney and former executive assistant district attorney declared, “Sexual misconduct by a teacher is a situation when a younger, impressionable youth is subjected to adult manipulation, and it is wrong, no matter what the sex. ” Even though justice is ‘gender blind’, the court system demonstrates double standards towards women. A male perpetrator is often labeled as a perverted after being convicted.
The female student is then labeled as the victim. On the other hand, a women perpetrator is given a shorter court sentence and is not left with the label of a pervert. “The young man is viewed almost as the hero, in getting himself an older, attractive woman. “(Convissar pg2). Van Valkinburgh pleaded guilty to raping a 16 year old girl and was convicted of third-degree rape. He was then sentenced to nine years in prison. Similarly, Sandra Geisel was charged with third-degree rape of a 16 year old boy. However, she was only sentenced six months in jail. Watson pg4) In other words, a man and a woman can be charged with the same rape crime, yet the women will be sentenced less time due to her gender. The opportunity for equality lifts this nation, setting it apart from all others. The continuing use of double standards weakens this nation. Although a society free of gender stereotyping seems impossible this country has come a long way, and has proved that change is attainable. A nation securely anchored in the pursuit of true equality is better than one burdened and sinking under double standards.