What is the Difference Between Sexism and Misogyny

The main difference between sexism and misogyny is that misogyny is more intense than sexism and is focused specifically on women and girls.

Sexism and misogyny are part and parcel of a patriarchal society. Although these are similar concepts that result in prejudice and discrimination against women, there is a subtle difference between sexism and misogyny. One is more intense than the other and can be described as hatred, contempt or disregard.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Sexism 
     – Definition, Characteristics
2. What is Misogyny
     – Definition, Characteristics
3. What is the Relationship Between Sexism and Misogyny
     – Outline of Common Features
4. What is the Difference Between Sexism and Misogyny
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Misogyny, Sexism

What is Sexism

Sexism is prejudice or discrimination based on sex or gender. Although sexism can affect anyone, we mainly associate sexism with discrimination of women and girls, as they often become a target of sexism. In sexism, the differences between the two groups are considered as an indication that one group is superior or inferior. Furthermore, it involves attitudes and ideology, including ideas, theories, and beliefs, that hold one group is superior, justifying oppressing the other group on the basis of their gender. These two groups are usually men and women, and women are considered to be inferior to men.  It also involves stereotypes and gender roles.

Furthermore, sexism also involves practices and institutions and the ways in which oppression is carried out. The resultant discrimination and oppression can be conscious and hostile. However, it can also be an unconscious bias.

What is Misogyny

Misogyny is the hatred of, disdain for, or prejudice against women or girls. It can manifest in various ways, including patriarchy, hostility, belittling of women, violence against women, social exclusion, discrimination, and sexual objectification. If we look at the origins of the word misogyny, it is made from the Greek words misein, which means to hate, and gynē, which refers to a woman. This is why we usually describe misogyny as women haters.

Misogynists have a blatant disregard for women. When compared to sexism, misogyny is more intense and blatant. For example, sexist may oppose women receiving a lesser salary than men (in the same position). However, misogynists will believe that women are inferior to men and don’t deserve equal pay. This is why we say misogyny is more intense and flagrant than sexism.

Relationship Between Sexism and Misogyny

• Both sexism and misogyny involve discrimination and prejudice against women.
• Sexists and misogynists hold women in contempt and believe them to be inferior to men.
• Moreover, they are a part of a patriarchal society.
• Sexism and misogyny are the root cause of issues such as violence against women, inequality, discrimination, and sexual objectification.

Difference Between Sexism and Misogyny

Definition

Sexism is prejudice or discrimination on the basis of sex or gender, while misogyny is hatred of, contempt for, or prejudice against women.

Nature

Misogyny is more intense and blatant than sexism. Therefore, it can be more hostile and violent than sexism.

Gender

Sexism can affect anyone, especially women, homosexuals, transgenders, even men, while misogyny directly affects women and girls.

Conclusion

Sexism is prejudice or discrimination on the basis of sex or gender, while misogyny is the hatred and disdain of or prejudice against women. The main difference between sexism and misogyny is that misogyny is more intense and focused on women and girls. Misogyny often tends to be more hostile and violent than sexism.

Reference:

1. Napikoski, Linda. “What Is Sexism? What’s the Definition and Feminist Origins of the Term?” ThoughtCo, Available here.
2. “What Is Misogyny, and Why Should You Care?” Medium, 28 Sept. 2017, Available here.

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