Misandry

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Misandry is the hatred of, contempt for, or prejudice against men or boys. Misandry can manifest in numerous ways, including social exclusion, discrimination, hostility, and violence. The term comes from the Greek words "misos" (hatred) and "anēr, andros" (man). It is the antonym of misogyny, which refers to the hatred of, contempt for, or prejudice against women.

Etymology

The term "misandry" is derived from the Greek words "misos" meaning hatred and "anēr, andros" meaning man. It was first used in the late 19th century and has gained more recognition in recent decades as discussions about gender and equality have become more prominent.

Manifestations

Misandry can be expressed in various forms, including but not limited to:

• **Social Exclusion**: Deliberately excluding men from social, professional, or academic opportunities.
• **Discrimination**: Treating men unfairly in comparison to women in various settings such as the workplace, legal systems, and educational institutions.
• **Hostility**: Exhibiting aggressive behavior or attitudes towards men.
• **Violence**: Physical or psychological violence directed specifically at men.

Misandry in Culture

Misandry can be found in various cultural contexts, including literature, media, and social policies. It is often discussed in relation to feminism, gender studies, and men's rights movements. Some argue that certain feminist ideologies or movements may inadvertently promote misandry, while others believe that these claims are exaggerated and detract from the legitimate issues addressed by feminism.

Legal and Social Implications

The legal and social implications of misandry are complex. In some cases, laws and policies that aim to address gender inequality may be perceived as biased against men. For example, family court decisions regarding child custody and alimony are sometimes cited as areas where men may face discrimination. Additionally, social attitudes that devalue men or masculinity can contribute to mental health issues and social isolation among men.

Related Concepts

• Misogyny
• Sexism
• Feminism
• Gender studies
• Men's rights movement
• Patriarchy
• Toxic masculinity

See Also

• Gender equality
• Human rights
• Discrimination
• Social justice