❖ The Western Concept of Equality: Reality or Deception? ❖
❖ The Ambiguity of “Equality”
The term equality lacks a precise and universally applicable meaning. In reality, no two human beings are ever completely equal, even if they are identical twins.
So, when complete uniformity is unattainable, then how can the demand for absolute equality be considered rational?
If one asks a proponent of equality why there is such a vast difference in the salaries of a company’s general manager and its janitor, they may provide a logical answer—
but in doing so, they will either contradict their own principle or introduce an exception to their belief system.
❖ The Double Standard of Western “Equality”
The Western ideal of equality is superficial, and its application is selective.
The West refuses to accept exceptions or amend its imposed definitions.
A neutral and honest observer will conclude that this concept of equality is nothing but a tool of Western dominance, shaped to serve Western interests.
Where convenient, exceptions are made, and where not, equality is rigidly enforced.
Take the case of Palestine—terms like freedom, equality, and human rights hold no weight there. Instead, Israel is granted special privileges, while Palestinians are denied basic justice.
❖ Gender Equality: Truth or Illusion?
The biological and psychological differences between men and women are undeniable facts—they require no elaborate explanation.
These inherent differences influence social roles, and denial of this reality stems from ignorance, not insight.
❖ The West’s Hypocrisy in Practice
Despite its loud claims of gender equality, the West itself is forced to recognize distinctions between men and women—such as in workplace regulations, where special accommodations are made for women.
Yet, when the West demands gender equality elsewhere, it is not advocating equality per se—
rather, it is imposing its own model of gender roles, expecting others to abandon their social frameworks and imitate the West.
❖ Capitalism and the Exploitation of Equality
This push for equality is not merely ideological, but deeply rooted in capitalist thought.
Under capitalism, everything—including human beings—is seen as an economic unit.
Thus, in the corporate world, humans are labeled either as “Human Resources” or “Consumers”.
This mentality has infiltrated even our societies.
We hear even the educated say:
“How can a nation progress if half its population stays at home?”
This reflects a worldview in which progress is measured purely in economic terms,
ignoring the disintegration of the family system in the process.
❖ The Islamic Perspective
In Islam, economic development is secondary, while the stability of the family structure is primary.
- A man earns a living because his family system requires him to do so.
- A woman manages the household, because this is essential to family stability.
Thus, the core issue is not about male-female equality,
but rather: What holds more value for a nation—capitalism or the family unit?
❖ Fundamental Questions for the West
We ask the West:
◄ If men and women are naturally different, why do you demand identical social roles for both?
◄ Why do you yourselves fail to adhere strictly to the very principle you impose?
◄ Why are you so eager to impose your social order on others in the name of equality,
while your own model has crumbled in just one century?
Let it be clearly understood:
Men and women are equal in their accountability before Allah, in their deeds, and in the reward and punishment they deserve.
However, this entire discussion pertains not to their spiritual value, but to their social roles and responsibilities.
