Is the historic male oppression of women born out of religion or did it develop from historical cohesion in completing complimentry tasks within a mutually beneficial partnership?
I've always blamed inequality between genders squarely upon the shoulders of religious doctrine but after reading a number of works recently about women in religion and their roles, I have started looking a little deeper into this belief.
In particular, I have been reading a lot of varying biographical works about Aisha and following on from this, following an Islamic feminist movement who adhere to the philosophy that oppression of women within the Muslim world came about due to the actions of men as opposed to the teachings of Islam.
In Christianity too, there are many references to strong women but yet the fact remains that within all the Abrahamic religions, the main protagonists are men and I cannot find reference of many women in positions of influence or any female prophets.
Whilst I remain a resolute atheist, I do find my self questioning my long held beliefs in this matter.
So what do you think? I would love to hear your comments and opinions whatever your gender or religious leaning.
Thanks in advance.
- Religion is the primary cause of gender inequality.
- Religion is not the primary cause of gender inequality.
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