Theorizing Public Policy: Why Does it Matter for Women?

                Within this Women’s Studies course, we have learned to define “the state” as “an abstract concept that refers to all forms of social organization representing official power in society: the government, law and social policy, the courts and the criminal justice system, the military, and the police.”  With this definition in mind, imagine the huge roles that these areas of our society, play within our lives on a daily basis.  Does “the state” maintain social inequality?  I firmly believe that it does.  In viewing the amount of women present in these sectors of society, it is obvious that men hold much more power due to their overwhelming representation within the government, justice system, etc.  As I stated previously in my “What is Women’s Studies” blog post, the United States is ranked 69^th in the world for women’s representation in government.  Until more women gain more positions of higher power, inequality will continue to reign in our society. 

            Another way that our society maintains society is through the military structure.  Men are placed on the front lines to die for their country, while women are placed far from harm’s way—in most cases.  This shows two things, either that society views women as incapable of doing the same job that their male counterparts do in battle, or conversely, that society holds more worth in women’s lives and their reproductive abilities.  Whatever the reason may be, they both provoke inequalities in society.

            I have never experienced discrimination by the state, but I know women who have.  I have spoken to police officers (family, friends, and random acquaintances) who have blatantly told me that they are MUCH more likely, and willing, to pull over a female than a male.  This is because, in their experience women talk on the phone, text, and in general are more distracted than men while driving (Not supported by any statistics, just word of mouth from them).  I found this offensive because I am a good driver; I pay attention 110% of the time, and I try to never answer my phone.  This just shows how stereotypes can even penetrate our law enforcement.

            Although I see great inequality within our current society, I believe that it is possible to achieve full equality within our present system of democracy.  I feel that in order to do this, more people must be educated on the programs that the women already present in power positions participate in, or in general, be educated on what is going on in our society as a whole (sadly, much of my generation lacks this).  I feel that more women need to gain the confidence to run for higher offices.  It is illegal for our society to discriminate against gender, color, sexuality, in considering someone for a job.  I feel that voting/politics should be the same way.  I think full equality will be achieved; hopefully, it doesn’t take 70+ years like the right for suffrage.