Feminism is a widely misconceived word and concept. For centuries, women have been put below men in the world, mainly because of the idea of women being only necessary for domestic tasks and rearing children. Though women have made huge leaps in the world of politics and science, they are still paid less than men, considered less intelligent, and objectified for their bodies.

According to Catalyst Research Centers, “The median annual earnings for full-time, year-round women workers in 2012 was $37,791 compared to men’s $49,398.” The over-ten-thousand-dollar difference shows how the workplace still values men more than women. In a research study done by scientist John Philippe Rushton, he claims that the average man has a higher IQ by nearly 4 points, though he does believe a woman can be as smart if she works harder than a male.

While some attempt to claim that an average man may be stronger and smarter than an average women, the facts just don’t support that.The basics of a person’s strength and intelligence come from their hard work and perseverance, not their sex.

More and more, media shows women as pieces of meat, not humans. TV shows and movies include obscene scenes. Even the music industry has been promoting specific assets of women. More and more, songs are related to sexualizing women, and not to the “love” aspect of a relationship between men and women.

Though many in the technology industry disapprove of feminism and derail women, Emma Watson, starring in the Harry Potter movies, takes a stand for feminism.

“Why has the word become such an uncomfortable one? I think it is right I am paid the same as my male counterparts. I think it is right that I should make decisions about my own body. I think it is right that women be involved on my behalf in the policies and decisions that will affect my life. I think it is right that socially, I am afforded the same respect as men,” Watson said in a speech in the UN. Watson believes in equality in bodies, politically and socially.

“How can we effect change in the world when only half of it is invited or feel welcome to participate in the conversation?Men, I would like to take this opportunity to extend your formal invitation. Gender equality is your issue, too.” Watson said in a speech in the UN.

Though men are often portrayed as the superior sex in culture, when that man gets married or has children, his wife and daughters will be treated the same way as he treated women. Beyonce, a big name in music culture, also speaks up about the respect of women and the need for change.

“Men have to demand that their wives, daughters, mothers and sisters earn more—commensurate with their qualifications and not their gender. Equality will be achieved when men and women are granted equal pay and equal respect,” Beyonce said in a CNN article.

Feminism is seen largely as a women’s movement. But it needs to be more than that; men need to also want change. Before anything will change, the people in power must be willing and want the change to happen. Though men might want to have the power now, the same inequality will still be present for their future.

Feminism is not a way of life- it is an opinion that many women take seriously to promote equality for men and women in the workplace, at home and in politics. It can give women empowerment, but it is not until men stand with the women that there will be a change. Though men are opposed to the idea of losing power so women can gain it, men must think of the women in their lives that are losing money and respect because of something as simple as gender.