Gender Stratification In Egypt

Gender Stratification In Egypt

For centuries, gender stratification and male dominance have been commonplace throughout Egypt. Though females have fought at differing degrees for years for equal rights it is still clear that this country, which has been plagued by violence, war, religious extremists and terrorism, is still home to gender inequality. Though women's roles have increased recently with the help of technology, globalization, human rights groups, and the recent revolution the uncertain political future leaves many questions about the direction gender stratification and gender rights will follow. Though there have been many positive signs that change is occurring in this area there is fear that fundamental Islamist will suppress future progress. By taking a holistic approach and applying Abu-Lughod's critique of culture I will examine the history and changes in gender relations In Egypt in an attempt to better understand the differing views, laws, cultural norms and opinions concerning gender. I will attempt to focus on the full ranges of behavior and beliefs while maintaining cultural relativism and focusing on the diversity and adaptive functions of gender roles in Egypt.
    Egypt has consistently ranked at the bottom of the world in terms of economic equality between males and females. Historically an agriculture based economy, Egypt has become more industrial and globalized, though at a much slower rate than most other countries. Traditionally, the women's role in Egypt has always been that of a homemaker and providing childcare. This is in large part due to Islamic holy texts, which are practiced by an overwhelming majority of Egyptians, that teach that a women's role is to be submissive and the man's role is provide for the household. This notion is still largely accepted and supported and mirrored in local media. Many women of this region view the "Western-women" seen in Hollywood movies as immoral and prefer the traditional role that they have been taught. Even as economic...