GENDER AND ART OF NATION BUILDING IN THE 21ST CENTURY: A PHILOSOPHICAL APPROAC

Abstract

This study delved into the conflicting views and interpretations of the role of gender in national development. The research is anchored on a positivistic review of the philosophical arguments on gender differences, with an exploratory and descriptive rather than prescriptive or normative approach. It highlights the traditional/patriarchal and the modern/feminist approach to gender studies, from which it synthesized a balanced approach to gender studies that promotes healthy social cohesion and synergy. Thereafter, it explored the contribution of gender to development, in the context of common ancillary terms like gender equity, gender equality, gender violence, gender mainstreaming, and gender discrimination. It concluded that gender is a positive force that can be harnessed for national development, and recommended a number of attitudes, practices and values that should be embraced to ensure a new world of gender balancing.