The 5th grade class went on a field trip to a laboratory. Upon seeing men in white coats conducting experiments, a child exclaimed, “Oh! Men also do research?” This incident highlighted the progress made in promoting visibility of female scientists in schools, and the importance of socialization in values of equality, respect, and social justice for creating a better society. However, recent surveys on politics, gender, and feminism show a majority of young men rejecting feminism and denying gender inequality, aligning more towards right-wing ideologies. This trend of modern sexism is on the rise and is being exploited by far-right groups, posing a threat to liberal democracies.
It is important to consider the attitudes of young men towards equality, not just their words. Recent surveys have shown that values of equality are prevalent among young men, with a majority supporting policies promoting gender equality such as paternity leave. This indicates progress in moving away from traditional gender stereotypes in society. Younger generations have grown up in more gender-equal environments, leading to a perception of lesser inequality. The discontent with feminist discourse among youth could also be a reflection of a broader societal frustration, with delayed transitions to adulthood and lack of opportunities impacting their future prospects.
The link between youth dissatisfaction and issues such as high rates of youth unemployment and dropouts should be recognized. It is essential to address these interconnected challenges to understand the root causes of discontent among young people. The disconnect between societal expectations and opportunities available to young people could be contributing to their disillusionment with existing institutions. Building genuine political will for change requires consistency and coherence in policies and actions to address these systemic issues. Margarita León, a professor of Political Science at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, emphasizes the need for a more holistic approach in addressing the challenges faced by young people today.
By recognizing the broader social context in which youth discontent arises, we can strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society for future generations. Addressing issues such as delayed transitions to adulthood, high rates of youth unemployment, and biases in education can help create a more supportive environment for young people. Fostering genuine political will for change requires a concerted effort to bridge the gap between societal expectations and the opportunities available to young people. By promoting values of equality, respect, and social justice, we can work towards building a society that values diversity and inclusivity for all its members.
