Misogyny

Misogyny is the hatred of, contempt for, or prejudice against women or girls. Misogyny can be manifested in numerous ways, including social exclusion, sex discrimination, hostility, androcentrism, patriarchy, male privilege, belittling of women, violence against women, and sexual objectification.

Etymology and usage

The term misogyny itself comes directly into English from the Ancient Greek word misogunia (μισογυνία), which survives in several passages of the works of Euripides. The earlier, longer, and more complete passage comes from a moral tract known as On Marriage (c. 150 BC) by the stoic philosopher Antipater of Tarsus.

History

Misogyny has been characterised as a prominent feature of the mythologies of the ancient world as well as of various religions. In addition, many influential Western philosophers have been described as misogynistic. The works of Confucius and ancient Greek philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle have been read as both reflecting and promoting misogyny.

In religion

Misogyny is manifested in many different ways, from jokes to pornography to violence to the self-contempt women may be taught to feel toward their own bodies. Negative stereotypes are often associated with misogyny, and it is often associated with aspects of many major religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.

In psychology

Misogyny can be a psychological issue, and it is the subject of several theories in the field of psychology. Some theories propose that misogyny comes from the fear of women, while others suggest that it is a result of the male desire to maintain societal power.

See also

• Sexism
• Misandry
• Patriarchy
• Feminism
• Gender discrimination
• Violence against women

External links

• Misogyny at Encyclopædia Britannica

Misogyny Resources
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