“I’m not the woman president of Harvard, I am the president of Harvard”. This quote by Drew Gilpin Faust, President of Harvard University conveys a sense of authority and challenges assumptions that might be made based on traditional gender roles. Throughout history, societal norms and expectations have often prescribed specific roles for women, limiting them in certain spheres and defining their worth in relation to their male counterparts. This struggle against predefined gender roles is not unique to the presidency; it is a controversial issue between two sides on whether women should pursue careers outside the home or adhere to traditional domestic roles. While this essay aims to clarify the debate surrounding women’s roles in society by examining both historical perspectives and contemporary arguments, it defends that embracing diversity and providing equal opportunities for women in the workforce not only promotes societal progress but also leads to a more vibrant, creative, and balanced community.
Over time, women’s roles in society have changed. In the past, women were mainly expected to stay at home, and their value was often judged based on traditional views. The dawn of the 20th century witnessed the first waves of feminism challenging these expectations, advocating for the right to work outside the home. For instance, in the United States, the percentage of women in the workforce increased from 21.8% in 1900 to 59.2% in 1998, showcasing a substantial shift in societal expectations (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). As a result, more women started entering the workforce, though they faced obstacles like stereotypes and bias. Understanding this historical background is crucial for making sense of today’s discussion on whether women should focus on careers or adhere to traditional roles.
Proponents argue that women’s participation in the workforce significantly contributes to the economy. By exploiting the talents and skills of the entire population, societies can achieve higher levels of productivity and economic growth. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, advancing gender equality in the workforce could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025. Moreover, Advocates for women’s work stress the importance of gender equality. Granting women the right to pursue careers outside the home is seen as a crucial step toward achieving equal opportunities and empowering women to make independent choices about their lives. Countries that actively promote gender equality in the workforce tend to have higher levels of happiness and well-being. For example, Iceland, a country known for its gender-inclusive policies, consistently ranks high in global happiness indices. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report also indicates a positive correlation between gender equality and overall societal development. Additionally, a diverse workforce, inclusive of women, fosters innovation and creativity. Women bring unique perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and skills to the table, enriching the overall work environment. The tech industry serves as a compelling example of the positive impact of diverse perspectives. A study by the Peterson Institute for International Economics found that companies with more women in leadership positions are 15% more likely to outperform their industry median in profitability. This statistic underscores the tangible benefits of gender diversity in fostering innovation and business success.
Contradictorily, opponents may argue that women’s entry into the workforce can lead to increased competition for jobs, potentially resulting in a lack of job opportunities. Stating that prioritizing men in certain industries could maintain a more stable job market. Research from the International Labour Organization suggests that gender-inclusive economies are more likely to experience higher employment rates and economic resilience. A study conducted by the World Economic Forum found that closing the gender gap in the labor market could result in a 26% increase in global GDP by 2025. This counters the notion that women’s participation negatively impacts job opportunities. Also, traditional roles provide a sense of stability and order, and any deviation from these roles could lead to societal disruption. Gender roles, when adhered to, contribute to a more harmonious and predictable social structure.In certain societies where traditional gender roles are strongly emphasized, there might be a perception of stability due to a long-standing cultural adherence to specific norms. For instance, in some conservative communities, the preservation of traditional gender roles is associated with social cohesion and continuity. In addition, opponents could counter the argument about diversity by suggesting that too much emphasis on diversity might lead to a dilution of core values and standards within certain professions. Maintaining a more homogeneous workforce is necessary for maintaining a cohesive and efficient work environment. However, research shows that having a diverse workforce benefits everyone, and sticking strictly to traditional roles may limit individual freedom. Concerns about diluting values overlook the positive impact of different perspectives. While some argue against women working, it’s essential to address their concerns. They worry about more competition for jobs, stability in traditional roles, and potential changes in values. In refuting these concerns, it’s clear that allowing women to work not only promotes equality but also brings positive changes for the entire society. It’s about embracing diversity and providing equal chances for everyone to contribute to a better future.
As we talk about whether women should work or stick to traditional roles, we’ve looked at how things used to be, what people who support women working say, and what those who disagree think. We’ve seen how women’s roles have changed over time, from just being at home to doing important work. This shows why it’s good to move forward and treat everyone equally. Even though some people have worries about this change, the proof shows that when women work, it’s good for the economy, society, and new ideas. As we think about this, let’s not only respect everyone’s choices but also understand that including women in the workforce brings benefits for everyone. When women get the chance to have careers outside of home, it’s not just fair; it helps everyone move forward together. By welcoming different backgrounds and giving equal chances to all, we create a community where everyone’s skills are valued, making the world more exciting and balanced. Let’s picture a future where women’s talents shine, making the world more vibrant, creative, and peaceful.
by Nezha HARIRI
S3 Department of English Studies
Chouaib Doukkali University of El Jadida
