Introduction
Colonial and capitalist perspectives on gender have historically shaped and sustained hierarchies that marginalize and oppress women and non-binary individuals, especially in formerly colonized societies. Rooted in patriarchal values, these perspectives have perpetuated rigid gender roles and justified exploitation under the guise of “civilization” and more recently, “development.” By critically examining these colonial and capitalist perspectives, we can better understand how they have influenced gender dynamics throughout history.
Colonial Perspective of Gender
Colonialism enforced a rigid binary and patriarchal structure, imposing European ideas of gender roles on indigenous societies, many of which had more fluid or egalitarian views of gender. In the colonial mindset, European men were often seen as the “superior” gender and race, with women portrayed as either needing “protection” or “civilization.” This framework not only positioned women as subordinate to men but also deemed indigenous gender roles and identities as inferior or backward.
Colonizers often exploited Indigenous women’s bodies and labor, viewing them as resources to be controlled, much like land or raw materials. This objectification justified control over women’s reproductive rights, sexuality, and labor, while Indigenous men were considered strong, breadwinners. That social setting perpetuates the gender division that colonizer made for their vested interests.
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Capitalistic Perspective of Gender
Capitalism further entrenched these colonial ideas by commodifying women’s roles in both public and private spheres. As economies transitioned to capitalist models, women were funneled into low-paying, labor-intensive jobs, particularly in the global South. This “feminization of labor” exploited women’s work as inexpensive and expendable, driving profits while reinforcing stereotypes that labeled women’s work as less valuable.
In the capitalistic model, gender is seen through a lens of productivity and profitability. Traditional gender roles are used as mechanisms to control both reproductive ( unpaid labor) and productive labor(paid labor), as women are often relegated to unpaid domestic roles while simultaneously filling low-wage labor markets. The result is a double exploitation both of women’s paid labor and unpaid household work, which are essential to sustaining capitalist systems but are undervalued economically and socially.
Development as the New Coloniality
The thesis that “development is the new name of coloniality” argues that modern development projects continue to impose Western-centric values and structures on non-Western societies. Under this framework, development is not a neutral, benevolent force but a continuation of colonialism under a new guise. For instance, development programs often advocate for “empowerment” or “progress” without understanding or respecting local gender dynamics, leading to policies that may further entrench gender disparities.
In many cases, development projects target women in the global South under the premise of “uplifting” them, but these projects often impose Western ideals of femininity, independence, and economic participation that do not always align with local values. This approach undermines indigenous knowledge systems and reinforces a narrative of Western superiority, where non-Western societies are seen as perpetually “developing” and in need of external intervention. Consequently, development becomes a mechanism for reshaping gender norms in ways that serve capitalist and neo-colonial interests, often sidelining genuine gender equity and local empowerment.
Emerging Perspectives on Gender
Recent gender studies critique this colonial-capitalist development model, emphasizing that sustainable progress must be rooted in de-colonial and anti-capitalist frameworks that respect local knowledge, traditions, and gender identities. Scholars advocate for a “gender justice” approach that seeks to dismantle the imposed binaries and hierarchies of coloniality. This involves recognizing and addressing how historical legacies of oppression continue to shape contemporary gender dynamics.
In this context, development can be re-imagined not as a prescriptive, Western-driven model but as a collaborative process, respecting diverse gender identities and local agency. Feminist and gender justice movements increasingly focus on reclaiming autonomy over cultural narratives, demanding a shift from exploitative economic models, and centering historically marginalized voices. This shift calls for redefining development to prioritize collective well-being and ecological sustainability, rather than merely economic growth.
Unpacking Colonial and Capitalist Perspectives on Gender Dynamics
The colonial and capitalist perspectives on gender have historically played a crucial role in shaping societal structures that marginalize and oppress women and gender-diverse individuals. These frameworks not only established rigid gender roles but also justified exploitation under the pretext of progress and civilization.
Colonialism imposed foreign standards of gender that often disregarded and devalued indigenous practices and beliefs. This resulted in a hierarchical system where European ideals were viewed as superior, perpetuating the notion that women and non-binary individuals were subordinate to men. The capitalist perspective further entrenched these inequalities by commodifying gender roles and relegating women to low-paying, labor-intensive jobs, reinforcing stereotypes about their perceived value in society.
As development initiatives emerged, they frequently echoed colonial ideologies, imposing Western ideals on non-Western societies and perpetuating the cycle of oppression. However, a shift towards de-colonial approaches in understanding gender can help dismantle these entrenched hierarchies. By critically examining and challenging the colonial and capitalist perspectives, we can foster a more inclusive framework that respects cultural diversity and promotes genuine equality for all gender identities.
Conclusion
The colonial and capitalist perspectives on gender have strengthened exploitative structures that oppress women and gender-diverse individuals. When development is grounded in these historical power dynamics, it perpetuates coloniality by imposing foreign standards and values on non-Western societies. However, by adopting a de-colonial approach to gender and development, communities can begin to dismantle these hierarchical structures. This approach fosters a framework that genuinely promotes equality and honors cultural diversity. Such a vision challenges conventional notions of progress and advocates for development that is inclusive, equitable, and truly empowering. Emphasizing the need to rethink colonial and capitalist perspectives allows us to envision a more just and equitable future.
Reference :
gender dynamics within capitalist frameworks: Global South Studies Center.
