Perspectives of Men Towards Feminism: A Case Study of an Educational Institute

Madhavi  Kute; Geeta  Joshi

Abstract

In contemporary society, discussions surrounding feminism have increasingly been accompanied by debates over its perceived misrepresentation and alleged misuse, often labeled as “pseudo” or “fake” feminism. Such narratives have contributed to confusion, particularly among men, and in some instances have diverted attention from women who require genuine gender-just support and empowerment. Within this context, the present study examines men’s perceptions and interpretations of feminism in an educational institutional setting. The research seeks to explore how men define feminism, the extent to which they incorporate feminist principles into their everyday interactions, and the influence of socio-cultural backgrounds on their attitudes and beliefs. Adopting a case study approach, the study collected data from 30 male participants aged 18 to 45 years using a self-designed interview schedule. A mixed-methods framework was employed, combining quantitative analysis to identify general trends with qualitative insights to capture personal viewpoints and lived experiences. The findings indicate that most respondents support the ideas of gender equality and women’s empowerment; however, their understanding of feminism remains fragmented and is often shaped by prevailing social norms, cultural conditioning, media narratives, and individual experiences. The studyfurther reveals that men’s engagement with feminist ideas is neither uniform nor simplistic, but rather layered and context-dependent. These results highlight the importance of structured gender- sensitization initiatives within educational institutions to promote informed, inclusive, and balanced understandings of feminism. Strengthening dialogue and awareness in such spaces can contribute to more constructive male participation in advancing gender equity and social justice.

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