Gender and International Relations. Theoretical perservatives

GENDER AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
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GENDER AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
The word gender is usually used interchangeably with the term sex. However, the two terms can be distinguished by looking at sex as a biological determining factor and gender like a social construction. There is indeed a diversity of both personal and social identities between males and females. An examination of the social creation of both femininity and masculinity indicates that a power association exists where women are underrepresented and also where gender differences are politicized. The issue of gender identity remains a contested issue as individuals seek to bolster traditional and normalized approaches to the arena of international politics and eventually international relations. Freedom cannot be attained unless women have been emancipated from the various forms of oppression. The ability of citizens to participate in public affairs is the core of democracy. With globalization, more countries are moving towards democratic forms of leadership. Despite the progress, the contribution of women in democracy and specifically in the positions of leadership has remained limited. For the full participation of all citizens in democratic societies, both men and women must take an active role in politics and other positions of power. Although all individuals need to participate in the political affairs of their nations, men have dominated the politics and other positions of power.[Aikhenvald, Alexandra. "Gender and noun class." Walter de Gruyter, 2004.]
For a long time, the term ‘power’ has been associated with masculinity. The attributes of power, rationality, and strength have been associated with the man, while the women have been displayed as weaker weak, inferior and emotionally charged. It is indeed true that men and women are different regarding anatomy, hormones, and genetics. However, these factors have led to the emergence of different perceptions about the functions, roles, and identities of both men and women. A majority of the political thinkers have categorized politics as a male enterprise which hinders women from participating in national activities and political endeavors. Such a way of thinking considers women as ‘inherent soft’ and lacking rational thinking which makes them remain in subordinate positions where men can dominate them. The prevailing ideas about gender are applicable in the International Relations (IR). An analysis of the differentiation between the two genders lead to the question: Why are women underrepresented in politics, and power positions?[Krook, Mona Lena. "Why are fewer women than men elected? Gender and the dynamics of candidate selection." Political Studies Review 8, no. 2 (2010): 155-168.]
Theoretical perservatives
In order to understand international relations, one requires to be well versed with various theories. Theories are essential because they assist in understanding the general patterns, and in this case, regarding human behavior and individuals interact with each other. Scholars in the field of international relations have developed various theories to make it easier to comprehend the questions in the discipline. In partic...