Double Standard Essay

A double standard is a rule or principle that is unfairly applied differently to different people, usually more strictly to one group of people compared to the other. There is a prevailing theme of inequality between the sexes that has been predominant since the beginning of time. This inequality, specifically sexual double standard, exists all over the world, across different cultures, races, and ethnic groups. In some cultures, however, it is more prevalent than others. There is a clear distinction between Western cultures that are more modern, and Arab cultures that are more traditional.

The double standard between men and women occur in different aspects of our lives, and affect us on both a personal and public level. It is present

Qasim Amin, one of the first Arab feminists, explained that there was a link between nationalism and feminism. The progression of the Arab world would not be possible without the development and progress of women. They should be integrated in every part of society. He said that women lacked freedom and equal rights. The misogyny and sexual discrimination constricted their movement and life, thus constricting their thoughts. Another early feminist, Anbara Salam, removed her veil in public as a symbolic act. She referred to her veil as an “ iron cage” that represented “female isolation and the tyranny of social shackles”(Salām, 21, 1978). She was constrained in her actions, dress code, and sexual expression. Nizar Qabbani, one of the most celebrated Arab poets and a feminist himself, wrote about taboo themes such as sexuality and eroticism. He wanted to free the Arab spirit, and expose the injustices imposed on women. He openly discussed love and passion without shame. In one of his books “ Journal of an indifferent woman”, he writes about a woman trapped in the traditions, costumes, and beliefs of her society. This woman’s diary is a representative of the double standards of sexuality that existed and still exists today. The tyranny of her father and society, that oppressed her sexual expression, causing her to resent her