"Man is defined as a human being and a woman as a female - whenever she behaves as a human being she is said to imitate the male"
- Simone de Beauvoir
About this Quote
This quote by Simone de Beauvoir talks to the gender inequality that has been present in society for centuries. By defining man as a human being and woman as a female, Beauvoir is highlighting the reality that women are frequently viewed as lesser than males. This is further emphasized by the concept that when a lady acts as a human being, she is stated to be mimicing the male. This indicates that females are not viewed as capable of being people in their own right, but rather as imitators of men.
Beauvoir's quote is a powerful suggestion of the gender inequality that still exists in lots of parts of the world today. It is a call to action for us to acknowledge the value of women and to treat them as equals. It is likewise a reminder that we should strive to create a society where ladies are seen as capable of being people in their own right, and not just copy cats of guys.