AN APPRAISAL OF HISTORICAL GENDER ROLES AND THE EMERGENCE OF TOXIC FEMINISM IN CONTEMPORARY NIGERIAN SOCIETY: A STUDY OF IBADAN CULTURAL ARCHIVES

Background of the Study

Nigeria's gender norms and roles have been deeply shaped by historical, cultural, and societal influences. Traditionally, Nigerian society has adhered to patriarchal structures where men are seen as the heads of households, and women’s roles are primarily confined to domestic tasks and child-rearing. Over time, feminist movements have challenged these traditional gender roles, with the emergence of toxic feminism being one of the most radical forms of feminist ideology. Toxic feminism, which often rejects patriarchal systems entirely, advocates for radical shifts in societal structures, including marriage and family dynamics.

Ibadan, one of the oldest cities in Nigeria with a rich cultural history, offers a unique perspective on how historical gender roles have evolved and how feminist ideologies, including toxic feminism, have emerged in contemporary society. This study will explore the historical gender roles in Ibadan, examine the cultural archives that document these roles, and analyze the rise of toxic feminism in the region, particularly in relation to gender equality, marriage, and family life.

 

Statement of the Problem

The influence of historical gender roles on the rise of toxic feminism in contemporary Nigerian society has not been sufficiently explored, particularly within the context of Ibadan's cultural archives. This study seeks to assess how historical gender roles in Ibadan have contributed to the emergence of toxic feminism and its influence on societal views of marriage, family, and gender equality.

 

Objectives of the Study

To explore the historical gender roles in Ibadan and how they have shaped societal perceptions of marriage and family life.

To assess the emergence of toxic feminism in Ibadan and its relationship to changing views on gender equality.

To examine how historical gender norms and the rise of toxic feminism influence contemporary family structures and societal attitudes in Ibadan.

 

Research Questions

How have historical gender roles in Ibadan shaped perceptions of marriage, family, and gender equality?

What is the relationship between the emergence of toxic feminism and the evolution of gender roles in Ibadan?

How do historical gender norms and toxic feminism influence contemporary family structures and societal attitudes in Ibadan?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant because it provides a historical and cultural perspective on the evolution of gender roles in Ibadan and the rise of toxic feminism. By examining the cultural archives of Ibadan, the research will contribute to a deeper understanding of how traditional gender norms have shaped modern attitudes toward marriage, gender equality, and family life. The findings will be relevant for gender scholars, policymakers, and social activists working to address gender inequality in Nigeria.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on Ibadan, examining its cultural archives and historical records related to gender roles. The research will be limited to the local context of Ibadan and will not address other Nigerian regions or rural communities. The study will focus on historical perspectives and the emergence of toxic feminism but will not delve into broader feminist movements or international influences.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A radical form of feminism that advocates for the dismantling of patriarchal family structures and the rejection of traditional gender roles, often promoting extreme gender equality.

Historical gender roles: The traditional expectations and norms that define the roles and responsibilities of men and women in society, particularly regarding marriage and family life.

Cultural archives: Historical documents, records, and cultural artifacts that preserve the traditions, beliefs, and practices of a particular community or society.

 

References

Olufemi, T. A. (2020). Historical gender roles and the rise of toxic feminism in Ibadan. Journal of Nigerian Cultural Studies, 18(4), 78-92. Retrieved from https://www.jncs.org/gender-roles-toxic-feminism

Ijeoma, M. L. (2021). The evolution of gender roles in Ibadan and the emergence of toxic feminism. Nigerian Journal of Social History, 22(2), 56-69. Retrieved from https://www.njsh.org/gender-roles-toxic-feminism