For sometime now, I have observed a lot of happenings as regards the concept of feminism. When the word feminism is mentioned, what usually comes to mind is now a twisted and warped version of what the term should really mean. A little while ago, I used to describe myself as a feminist and I even included it in my bio on Twitter. But along the line I took it down. Why? Because the concept of feminism has become so adulterated and wrapped in a lot of misconception and misperception. Feminism at inception, was used to fight for women's right to vote, to hold political offices, to have good quality education amongst others. But the modern concept of feminism is taking on a new dimension which is quite frightful in my opinion.

First of all, let me start with the definition of feminism. According to Wikipedia," Feminism is a range of movements and ideologies that share a common goal: to define, establish, and achieve equal political, economic, cultural and social rights for women. These includes seeking to establish equal opportunities for women in education and employment. A feminist advocates or supports the rights and equality of women" We can observe that the word "equal" is very well pronounced in this definition. So this leads to another concept, Gender equality.

Gender equality is when women and men enjoy equal rights, opportunities and entitlements in civil and political life. This is very understandable and agreeable in the terms of civil and political life. But when it tries to be associated majorly with social life as it is in recent times, then I think that's where the problem sets in. Using the institution of marriage as an example, can the husband and wife be "equals" in the same home? Can two captains be in the same ship? I think not. Do not misunderstand me. A husband and wife are to function as a unit,thereby, decision making is a joint effort. Nobody is to be a dictator to the other. The good book (Bible) even acknowledges this. The man is the head of the family while the woman is the neck. Can the head function without the neck? So, in my opinion, I don't think gender equality can be applied in this vital social institution and other social settings as most modern feminists think . Rather, there should be a balance in the roles of both genders,a sort of blend. This is where the concept of gender balance sets in.

Gender balance is the equal and active participation of women and men in all areas of decision making,and in access to and control over resources and services. The male and female are to work hand in hand. Nobody should claim to be the boss of the other. Therefore, today's feminists should fight for a balance in gender relations. They should demand more respect from the men and not claiming equality with them. Feminists should strive for this balance more than equality. However, how can men and women be equal if they are not the same? Modern feminism is based off of feelings rather than reason if it wants men and women to be equal. The biological functions of a female and male are not up for debate and shouldn't be because they cannot be altered by mere words in my opinion.

Conclusively, both genders have their peculiar roles and I feel the modern feminists should strive to create a balance in these differences, also encouraging both genders in complementing and respecting each other's roles.