The Inequality Issue

Note from the editor ”If we choose, we can live in a world of comforting illusion.” - Noam Chomsky And we could. We could choose to ignore that our der issues, to sectarian strife, and the much debated religious freedom. Multiple layers of power dynamics come into play when creating a person’s individual and collective rights, and realistically they are often suited to the power that creates them. However, it is our responsibility as individuals to question them, to question injustice even when it does not concern us. This is what this issue of the AUC Times would like to invite you to do. Examine what you have always been told is normal or ‘natural’, question who you have been told you are, and question what has been taught to you as the inevitable truth. Just because the world exists as it does in it’s present form, does not mean it always has, or that it is in human nature for it to be so.

And then remember that it is up to you to correct injustice.

Editor in Chief Nancy Salem Managing Editor Heba Bahnassy Politics Editor Sarrah Kassem

Layout Editor Hadeel Ahmed Photography Editor Nathalie Maher Faculty Advisor Mark Mikhael

Culture Editor Mariam Matar Arts Editor Amenah Abouward Opinions Editor Jihad Abaza Copy Editors Sherin Sabry Lama Abdel Barr

Business Manager Lora Saleh Financial Coordinator Ali Dafrawy

May13 4 10 16

MASCULINITY AND THE EGYPTIAN NATION

EMANCIPATION: LEAVING THE STATE BEHIND

28

PHOTOESSAY: FACES OF FAYOUM

34

NAMING AND SHAMING CONFRONTING THE SEXUAL HARRASSER

36

“TERRORISM” AS A COUNTER DISCOURSE: AN ONTOLOGICAL, CRITICAL UNDERSTANDING OF A SOCIAL FACT

DECONSTRUCTING GENDER: GENDERLESS BABIES

22

THE PHILOSOPHY OF FASHION QUESTIONS WITH DEANA SHAABAN

24

REACQUAINT YOURSELF WITH YOUR HOMETOWN RABAB NEMR’S “IN THE LOVE OF ALEXANDRIA.”

Disclaimer: The AUC Times is a student publication, any opinions expressed in the publication are the writers own, and do not re-

MASCULINITY AND THE EGYPTIAN NATION

BY NANcY SAlEm

© Paul Schutzer

Masculinity,

Former Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser just like femininity, is

not only between women and men, but

work, Masculinity and Nationalism: Gender

between men themselves who exist outside

and Sexuality in the Making of Nations, Joane Nagel argues that “The culture of

and person to person. Yet we continue

nationalism is constructed to emphasize

to use phrases like “be a man,” as if the universal man exists. When we talk about

such conceptions become embedded in

and resonate with masculine cultural

gender, we are usually referring to the

the world around us, even within the basis

themes. Terms like honor, patriotism,

female experience, only in relation to males

of the nation itself. It becomes interesting

cowardice, bravery and duty are hard

in comparison. The gender experience of

then to trace changing perceptions of

to distinguish as either nationalistic or

masculinity in Egypt during three politically

masculinist, since they seem so thoroughly

to be explored recently. Ideal and ‘un-ideal’

transformative periods: the colonial period,

tied both to the nation and to manliness.”

qualities envisioned for men then impact not

the presidency of Gamal Abdel Nasser and

Hence, a political authority at a certain time

only women, but also men themselves, thus

Anwar Sadat. Upon doing so, it becomes

highlights certain concepts to construct a certain man. It is in the same way that a

creating what sociologist Raewyn Connell

leader of a nation state, supposedly the

refers to as ‘hegemonic masculinity’. This is an exclusive hierarchy, which constructs

of changing political and economic policies

beacon of nationalist sentiment, should

ideals of masculinity and those embodying

of the nation, which has resulted in an

display the same masculine traits that are

them at the top of society, with less than

unequal power relationship among men.

sought in nationalistic discourse.

ideal qualities (such as femininity) lower

In the context of the nation, hegemonic

down in the hierarchy. Such a male system then results in oppression and inequality,

4

Such a phenomenon can then be observed in Egyptian history. Since the

by the political authority of the time. In her

colonial time (1882-1953), economic and

Politics political policies have affected perceptions

choice. Nasser implemented what came

of masculinity. While the roles of colonizer

to be called ‘Arab socialism’ based on the

and colonized were not homogenous, their

idea of an identity that is Arab and socialist

This constructed a new form of dominant

in nature. His plan for the nationalization

masculinity - the businessman. Changing

of the private sector was larger than any

forms of masculinity and the evolution

country in Eastern Europe. Accordingly, the

of these thus created an unequal power

once prominent image of the Effendiya man

relationship between conceptions of who

but also encouraged the conception of

was reconstructed into the strong military

the ideal man was considered to be in

the unmanly Egyptian. This resulted in an

man, who was now placed at the top of the

modern Egyptian history.

‘Effendiya

masculine hierarchy.

The colonial discourse then reinforced

masculinity’

represented

by

into the background, so that the newly

The debate over the construction of

the anti-colonial nationalist movement,

Such a conception of the military

gender continues to exist in our current

arguably the hegemonic masculinity of

man changed once again under Sadat,

political scene, as questions arise over

the day. The infamous red Tarboush (fez)

what it means to be a man, or a woman

became symbolic of this movement, and

time

became a part of the masculine image. This

implemented open-door policy, I

mass

consumption.

His

newly

within the discourse that has normalized

shifted after the 1952 military coup and

was built on capitalist economic policies.

Gamal Abdel Nasser’s presidency.

It was extremely unpopular amongst the

continue to investigate and understand

certain

characteristics,

and

dismissed

Nasser’s policies radically transformed

Effendiyya class, as they did not support

the dynamics of the unequal two way

Egypt economically, politically but also

the shift from the nation of production to

relationship between state and in this case,

socially. Nationalism was still critically

one of consumption. They believed this

masculinity. What is important to remember

important, but in this period it was not the

newly found consumerism and ‘reign of the

is that both conceptions of the state and

nationalism of struggle against an enemy,

market’ was a corruption of their view of an

masculinity are constructed, and therefore

but rather a struggle to create a common

authentic Egyptian life. Hence, prominent

changeable.

identity. Pan-Arabism was the identity of

conceptions of the Effendiyya class faded

© W. Hanselman

Saad Zaghloul (1859–1927).

©

Former Egyptian President Anwar Sadat

5

Politics

MESSAGE IN A BOMB: THE NORTH KOREAN CASE

BY NAdA BArAkA

While this caricature seems to incorporate North korea’s last ruler, kim Jong-il, it still seems applicable to current leader kim Jong-un

6

It becomes a common notion in our

With such a fragmented economy, the

culture in South Korea, North Koreans go to

‘modern’ world that political decisions of a

only source of power North Korea has, is its

extremes to obtain illegal DVDs of famous

country, on an international level, serve more

military power, taking the form of its current

South Korean soap operas. North Koreans

than one purpose. It appears, however, that

nuclear program. In fact, it is considered to

appear to obtain a sneak peek of what is

people tend to stick with the actual rhetoric,

have a more powerful program than Israel

advanced and ‘globalized.’ Thus, the North

so that what is said is understood face

and thus constitutes a more dangerous

Koreans begin to construct with time a

value. Consequently, one must attempt

threat, although it is not as advanced as

perception that a revolt would not only call

to develop a deeper understanding of the

the US or Russia. Part of the danger lies

for better living, it would call for an end of

current threats of North Korea engaging

in the secretive operations of how and

North Korean communism. Kim Jong-un

in a nuclear war with the United States

where the bombs are developed. What is

and his posse however do what they can

and declaring war on South Korea. While

known is that it conducted three tests, the

to maintain their grip over power. It seems

some analysts would claim that Kim

latest is dated weeks ago in which the US

though that the more governments try to

Jong-un, current leader of North Korea,

measured an earth quake of a magnitude of

affect their people, the more the effects are contradictory than desired. Yet, many seem

is demonstrating force, one could equally argue that North Korea is creating diversion

further concluded that North Korea owns an

to question the continuous North Korean

for its own political instability. Through the

abundance of chemical weapons, although

threat advanced by its leader, as a US

examination of the current North Korean

they are not as deadly as nuclear weapons

political analyst has summed up that “talk

since their effect is much dire. Once it

is one thing, actions are another.” Similarly

becomes clear how Kim Jong-un’s threats

declared owning a nuclear program in 2009,

others have gone as far as calling the threat

are directed as much to the US and South

it became a concern that the communist

“ludicrous.” Consequently, jokes are made

power.”

Korea, as to his own people.

This was an opinion shared

of the world perceives the North Korean

as an independent communist state, it was

by Director General of the International

leader, and the absence of taking him

seen as unlikely to survive. The fact that it

Atomic Energy Agency during this period,

seriously.

remained to this day is a surprise in itself.

Mohamed ElBaradei. Since the economic

Julius Caesar once said, “Beware of

This is because of the poor economic

state of North Korea is debauched, their

the leader who bangs the drums of war

standing of the country. According to the

current nuclear power becomes their only

in order to whip the citizenry into patriotic

CIA’s The World Factbook, the annual GDP

source of power. Thus, it becomes its only

fervor.” Indeed this appears to be correct,

per capita is about $1,800; this ranks it

tool to pressure countries in order to prove

especially when dealing with an erratic

as the 197th in The World Factbook. Due

to the international community, and more

self-indulgent leader like Kim Jong-un. Due

to the mismanagement of the currency,

importantly to their people, that their scare

to the low economic standing and living

tactic is bullet proof.

standards presented to North Koreans, the

After the establishment of North Korea

The wellbeing of the people themselves is

It becomes clear how a country living in

idea of rebellion is not a distant one. The

also very mismanaged. About half of the

utter despair is not farfetched by internal

North Korean regime however would do

population lives under the poverty line, not

revolt. What Kim Jong-un seems to be

what it can to keep this from happening,

to mention that one third of children die

unaware of is the increasing curiosity of his

and thus embarks on a rather unsuccessful

people. For a number of years now, people

effort to bring people in order by making a

says the World Food Program. Televisions

have been escaping to other countries,

desperate political move on an international

and electricity are a luxury in most areas,

phones are smuggled through China, and

scale. It appears, however, that the threats

with the healthcare system being a

Internet is accessed using untraceable

are taken lightly, causing the intentions of a

domains. Also, with the rise of American

government that claims to know its people, to take a different turn.

7

COMIC BOOKS, IDENTITY AND GEOPOLITICS: CAPTAIN AMERICA’S EMPIRE BY mAHEEN HYdEr

In

where

constructed as a Western identity then

Captain America was created amidst

globalization has taken its hold on creating

a

consumer

culture

becomes institutionalized through popular

World War II and its aim was to tap into

culture and it therefore derives its ability to

the patriotic consciousness of the citizenry

function, it is important to look at how

create geopolitical identities.

identity and geopolitics inform certain

Let us look at this through the lens of

issue of the comic book, narratives of

narratives in popular culture. To further

Gramsci’s idea of hegemony, which states

America being a ‘peace-loving’ nation while

our understanding of such conditions,

that the ability to build consensus among

Europe was ‘war-mongering’ were being

let us explore the role of comic books in

society through informal avenues plays a

propagated inside the story. The character’s

creating national identity and geopolitical

skills are not those usually attributed to

realities. The notion of culture is important

political norms. So, with popular culture

superheroes in the form of superpowers,

when discussing identity because it is

being used to create a sense of identity,

instead they consist of leadership qualities,

the continuous reproduction of Captain

athletic abilities, and inherently defensive;

qualities of states-and other characteristics

America and the associations that come

a way of capturing the true nature of

such as independent, sovereign, equal,

with it, we see that they are simply tools

America in the global world order as being

and occupied by a nation. States are

being utilized to perpetuate consumerism.

exceptional above everything else. The

best understood as an ongoing process

Through the medium of a comic book and

idea of Captain America then creates a

of

territorial

an appealing character such as Captain

relationship with the reader who is looking

Attributing

America, the creators are able to maintain

at a character that possesses nationalist

creating

practices

and

and

maintaining ideologies.

symbolic meaning to territory then furthers

sentiments and, in the aim of framing a

the emphasis on states, and it is through

the way readers not only view the world

hero, a link is fostered to the scale of the

popular culture that these messages are

but also how they interpret their own role

nation. It was the embodiment of Captain

disseminated. Consequently, they play a

as Americans within it. The impact of comic

America against the backdrop of the

role in framing a collective identity within

books on creating geopolitical attitudes is

“other” in society that also fostered an

geopolitical narratives. This will become

also a vital point to touch on because it is

identity between the comic book hero

evident through a close examination of the

exposed to a young audience during their

and its readers. However, it was not until

comic book character Captain America.

socialization process, a time when most

Captain America comic books were able to

The agency that the character Captain

children start to formulate political leanings

integrate American history into their work

America embodies as a superhero is

and opinions towards their surroundings.

that the national consciousness was really

derived from his ability to create issue-

There

something

moved and the idea of national identity was

linkages between American nationalism,

inherently present in Captain America to

created in relation to territorial inclinations.

internal order, and foreign policy in relation

make the character such a powerful force

The events of September 11th, 2001

to the individual. Captain America then

and one that many identify with. Perhaps

coincided with the creation of a new Captain

becomes representative of a hero that is

we can look to the parallels between the

America series, which paved the way for

not only from the nation, but also one that

story line presented within the comic book

territorial symbols such as the Pentagon

exists for the sake of it. The characteristics

and the historical experience of the United

and the World Trade Centre to be woven

and mannerisms of Captain America

States.

into the storyboard. The ways in which the

8

must,

however,

be

Politics aftermath of the attacks is portrayed within

book and its role in creating a national

masses. It remains unsettling, however, that

consciousness that informs identity through

superheroes are not able to advocate for

role in shaping the perceptions of the

territorial symbols. It also paves the way for

counterhegemonic positions and instead

American public sphere. The narrative of

the popular culture industry to manufacture

are focused on protecting life and property.

9/11 was surrounded with ideas of America

consent for the political goals of a nation.

Mainstream comic book characters seem

being forced into a war overseas and the

Gramsci’s idea of hegemony could not

to only reinforce state practices instead

dichotomy of Us versus Them was only

be any more relevant than it is with the

of challenging rule of law, and Captain

entrenched further by encouraging military

incorporation of current events in comic

America’s role in legitimizing American

power and constructing identities through

books to create a submissive populace

exceptionalism is part of the hegemonic

the lens of freedom-loving/freedom-hating biases.

discourse used by popular culture to further and their cause(s) abroad. The dominant

perpetuate the baseless ideas of American

Captain America thus provides an

geopolitical narrative found in Captain

exceptionalism.

insightful basis to evaluate a comic

America therefore is a tool for controlling the

Š Turboman

9

Politics

EMANCIPATION: LEAVING THE STATE BEHIND

BY AdHAm SHEBl

Š Nathalie maher

One is left with a trilemma of state, prosperity and democracy

10

Emancipation been

thrown

is a word that has

around

time

and

and democracy are crucial, one could

League. Consequently, this hints to the

time

easily argue that the state should forgo.

idea that the African Union can more likely

again, especially in the so-called era of

Accordingly, academics, such as Richard

lead the region and Egypt into the ‘age of

‘globalization.’ It is to be understood in the

Falk, argue that in the Middle East the

globalization,’ if nurtured. The African Union

realm of international relations as a process

state system is slowly being eradicated

also gives us greater room for integration,

in which borders of the sovereign state

since a diminishing of territorial sovereignty

both politically and economically. While

becomes observable. Thus, states subvert

the African Union may be far behind the

to governing internal life of society, and non-

European Union since it gives, similar to the

Hence, in order to approach the issue of emancipation, it becomes crucial to apply

Arab League, importance to states rather

critical theory, as it permits us to bring up

in shaping the world order. This loss of

than citizens. Ultimately, unless radical

the issue of emancipation. It also allows

territorial focus is also reinforced by the

change takes place within the Arab League,

us to identify nurture- tendencies that exist

pressures being exerted on the economy

the African Union will continue to constitute

within the present structure of the world

of a state by the global market, and thus

the better choice for the emancipation of

that can point us towards emancipation.

the state loses power to a further extent.

Egypt. This seems rather upsetting since

Consequently, a disappearance of the state

the Arab League appears to be afraid to

theorist Andrew Linklater, who was able

results in a need for a global government,

move towards integration, when it actually

to bring the issue of emancipation into the

which can be achieved through regional

has multiple advantages over the African

organizations.

Union such as the shared language of its

of the European Union as representative for

Thus, the question arises as to which

Arab members, a shared culture, and, of

emancipatory capabilities in the ‘modern

regional organization Egypt should turn

course, the entire notion of pan-Arabism

world.’ Within the European Union people

to: the African Union or the Arab League.

that developed under Nasser.

are slowly moving towards a situation in

While, it would be most ideal for Egypt to

which citizens and noncitizens share the

be an active member in both, it appears

same duties and obligations. Accordingly,

that it does not have the capabilities to

with emancipation in mind, it appears that in the case of Egypt the regional organization,

regional organizations. Hence, it becomes

the African Union, becomes more relevant in our present age.

system, but identifying the reasons that

Consequently, with the emergence of

lead to emancipation. In this respect, the

‘globalization,’ states are faced with a

two organizations can be compared, while

decision: the “political trilemma”, as Dani

considering the European Union as a bench

Rodrick put it in The Globalization Paradox,

mark since they seek greater integration,

in which a choice must be made between

but may have not completed this process

three options: state, democracy, and

yet. Firstly, it seems rather problematic that

prosperity. As a “trilemma,” citizens of nation

both the African Union and Arab League still

states cannot have all three, but are forced

view the members in each organization as

to pick between two of them, and forgo one

member states and thus give importance

of them. Prior to ‘the age of globalization,’

to state sovereignty. However, it appears

the state appeared to be important as

that the African Union would have the

it safeguarded the national economy.

advantage as an organization, as it has

Currently, however, the state is slowly

a standing army, which is a huge step

losing its power as national economies

towards greater integration. Similarly, the

“ ”

African Union also has somewhat effective Since, however, the concepts of prosperity

decision-making organs, unlike the Arab

11

THE MYTH OF “REAL BEAUTY” BY dArA SABrY

“I’m ugly” is a thought that every female has confessed to herself at some

beauty”. Secondly, there is an obvious lack

way or that they need to be skinny. As the

of diversity within the advertisement itself,

quote goes ‘beauty is in the eye of the

which features women of different ethnicities

beholder’,” he reasserts.

idealized versions of what it means to be

for a period of 10 seconds or less, and who

beautiful has become a very prominent

consequently are left unremembered.

theme in most media outlets; this form of

Hassan

Saad,

a

Farida Salem, a sophomore, also shared her views on what beauty entails,

Mechanical

beauty is primarily always physical. It is said

Engineering sophomore, has his own take

skinny is beautiful. She feels strongly about

that beauty is only skin deep, but when will

on the issue. “Western media has created

the fact that “everyone has a different body”

this attitude become prevalent enough for

this image that all girls want to follow. Their

and that each body form should be equally

women to no longer be obsessed with what

success seems to be due to the emotional

viewed as beautiful in its unique way. When

their faces and bodies look like?

appeals that they generate within the

asked if she thinks that advertisements

I’m sure most of you have recently

female population by making them believe

like Dove’s “Real Beauty” campaigns have

come across that Dove advertisement

that they need make up to look a certain

called Real Beauty Sketches that attempts to make the point that women don’t necessarily see how beautiful they really are. In this ad, a forensic artist is asked to sketch a woman by the descriptions she gives of herself, without his having seen her previously. The Dove team then brings in another person, who has seen woman, to describe how the she looks to the artist.

The ad concludes with the presentation of the two sketches by the artist, one of how the woman sees herself and the other of how others perceive her: the latter being the much more attractive sketch of the two.

Outwardly, the ad sends a very positive, uplifting message, but if you really think about it, is it so? A blog post by the title Why Dove’s ‘Real Beauty Sketches’ Makes Me Uncomfortable… and Kind of Makes Me Angry states that the ad makes a valid point with the notion that each individual is his/her own harshest critic and that women are generally more beautiful than they perceive themselves to be. The post, however, explores many reasons why the ad is problematic. Firstly, it indiscreetly reinforces the importance of “physical

12

© mikhail Halugin

Culture

and

they

they all have slim waists, perfect hair, and

development stage, is forced to focus on

further reinforce gender stereotypes and

sultry looks. Similar to the aforementioned,

how to maintain and perfect our looks,

constructs of what it means to be beautiful.

another article called Things Walt Disney

partially because of these ads that are

This argument about gender stereotypes

Never Told Us argues that there are plenty

produced by companies like Dove and

and inequality does not only pertain to

of stereotypes and gender roles that are

L’Oreal.

portrayals in advertisements, but also to

represented by Disney’s princesses; the

opinion pertaining to how Dove commercials

those found in cartoons and fairy tales that

protagonist

Sleeping

create a psychological attachment to

most children are subjected to at an early

Beauty and Snow White, are the pretty

their products in many female minds,

princesses that are victimized by “ugly”

which indicates that ideologies pertaining

how

men,

an

Salem

believed

examination

of

that

all

princesses,

like

Tanzina Vega expressed her

Disney’s

villains. These three princesses always end

to beauty have succeeded mostly as

princesses, from Belle to Sleeping Beauty

up with the handsome prince who manages

capitalistic endeavours. In other words, in

to Cinderella to The Little Mermaid, share

to rescue them from peril.

order to look “ideally” beautiful, you have

common factors that link them all together;

Our

subconscious,

in

its

to consume. Vega emphasizes another very important point; some women do in or “ugly” self-image that the women in the Dove commercial initially described themselves to be. My question is, what about the rest of us who aren’t born looking like Barbie or Adriana Lima? Farida Emara, a sophomore, believes that “we should

“all women are beautiful but in different ways, no woman needs to wear make up all the time, even if it does enhance outer beauty.”

The bottom line is that women, worldwide, just need to take a break. We all experience the same problems…believe it or not, even the conventionally “pretty” women have issues with the way they look and with their personalities. Nobody is indeed perfect and the idea that such

way that you are supposed to look. Accept yourself, embrace yourself, and move on.

After all, there is so much more to life than what merely meets the eye.

© mikhail Halugin

13

Culture

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A DONKEY CART

BY NAdiNE AWAdAllA

© James (Jim) Gordon

© marc ryckaert

14

strolling the streets in this fashion. By 2:00

my wood, yet he bravely cuts in between

over what is known here as the ‘City of the

p.m we’ve collected an unwanted salon

the cars with the man’s instructions. We

Dead’. The sun steadily breaks through the

chair with a broken leg, a toilet seat, three

can hear a ‘mehragan’ play from one of the

darkness & the citadel emerges atop the

brass knockers, a plastic washing tub, and

minibuses and two cars behind, someone

hill. Beneath it I rest propped up against

a set of old pots. The man then stops to

is blasting something that keeps repeating

the Magra al-Oyoon wall between other

feed Zaki and buy himself a small lunch, as

“Egypt’s number one hit music station; Nile

The day begins with a soft sunrise

Fm.”

carts and a few scattered donkeys grazing on meager amounts of wilted barley. The

I ponder the items now loaded on my

By the time we arrive, Zaki is

a’thaan rings out melodiously and we all

back. How many a fancy dinner has that

worn out. The man dumps a new pile of

wait for our owners to come back from their

chair witnessed? Or has it always been a

withered barley in front of him and Zaki

morning prayer and load us up with cargo.

victim of the ever empty salon that was

begins to devour it as if it were his last

Rumor has it that this old structure was old

always ‘reserved for guests’ that are never

meal. He props my back up against the

Cairo’s main water transportation system,

actually invited over? Has it been in the

wall overlooking the citadel. My creaking

family for years or is it a recent purchase

wheels and aged wood are a testimony to

believe. Soon enough, the men approach

made in China? I try not to think of the toilet

the days – days just like this one - That are

and my owner brings Zaki, the donkey,

seat very much though, for it is a highly

spent roaming the streets of Cairo to prove

forth and bridles him up, disturbing his

unpleasant item to be burdened with. We

that ultimately “one man’s trash is another

morning snack. He then loads me up with

are, however, always thankful for whatever

man’s treasure.” The man unpacks his loot

some leftover goods from yesterday and

we can get.

and retreats back into the City of the Dead,

we set off. My wooden wheels creak with

I also take the time to look

leaving Zaki and I behind, overlooking

every turn and bump in the road and Zaki’s

around. A nasty man hollers at a few girls

the ancient citadel and musing about

hoofs clip-clop on the street damp with

trying to cross the street, a woman barters

tomorrow.

morning dew.

over the price of 2 kilos of potatoes with the

We set out very early because it

poor vegetable stall owner who is becoming

takes us a very long time to arrive to our

increasingly exasperated at her, some high

destination, for my wood is old and heavy

school boys who have apparently decided to skip school today stand in a corner

used to be. The cost of barley has also gone

sharing a cigarette.

up, which means the man cannot afford to

A minibus with a broken exhaust pipe parks

buy as much food as he used to for the

in front of us by the sidewalk and lets out a

hardworking donkey. It seems that today

loud gas fart that leaves Zaki snorting and

we’re heading towards Heliopolis because

braying, so the man decides that we’ve had

the man chooses to steer us down Salah

enough rest and must continue. We collect some more treasures brought down to us

cars loaded up with way too many school

by the ever-popular reed basket and rope

children to be considered safe, minibuses

method. Amongst these new treasures are

loaded with early morning commuters,

old rusty chandeliers and a rusty kitchen

other more colorful wooden carts that sell

tap.

‘foul’ sandwiches, sleek shiny new cars,

“

Ultimately one

”

As the evening sets in and rush hour begins, it is time for us to head home.

We arrive at Heliopolis around Zaki does not balk at the proximity of the residential apartment buildings the man

cars around us, despite my own qualms on

shouts out “bikya” at the top of his lungs.

the matter. We are so close that I can feel

We spend the next few hours leisurely

the heat from other engines warming up

15

DECONSTRUCTING GENDER: GENDERLESS BABIES

BY SArA AHmEd ABdEl AZiZ While gender equality is beginning to slowly hold positions in public discourse,

streets or taking his kids to “dagis” (day-

according to the gender that matches their

care centre).

sex chromosomes — XX or XY.

Egypt is a country in which women are still

The Swedes aimed, decades ago,

Another problem is that baby Pop

primarily expected to take on traditional

to overthrow traditional gender roles and

may suffer from a lack of ‘gender identity’,

roles of childbearing and staying at home,

constructs. Women now have the option

which refers to a person’s inner sense of

give or take a few leniencies that permit

of following a traditionally male career path

himself or herself as male or female.

some of them to occasionally thrive on

while men can splurge just as much time

From a young age, girls are given

their own in a male dominated society.

as women do mothering their children. The

Barbie dolls and boys toy trucks. As the child grows up, society shifts focus from

When they reach a certain age, women are expected to do three things: get married,

to view husbands as their sole providers or

the biological identity of a human to the

take care of their households and raise their

their protectors. In a way, Swedish state

characteristics of the ‘gender’ of its host.

children.

policy of autonomy somehow manages to

The word ‘gender’ itself connotes a set of

abolish gender roles in favour of a more

rules and expectations that are socially and

unitary unisex role.

culturally imposed on both sexes.

In a country like Sweden, where women nationwide enjoy sexual freedom,

The

a

There exists a certain belief, though, that

and tremendous opportunities to thrive

“genderless” child takes this movement

human nature is utterly malleable and that

professionally, women don’t seem to

to a whole new level. A couple of Swedish

babies -from the moment they slip out of

be missing out on much. Granted, the

parents refused to reveal whether their

their mothers- are akin to soft clay on which

country isn’t a utopia; many women still

child, named Pop, is a boy or girl so as to

any given society can imprint the values

an immaculate maternity leave system

prospect

of

raising

and dogmas it believes in.

work part-time in positions that are more poorly paid than those held by men. Others

be treated if male or female. Pop gets to

Imagine, for a split second, a

still maintain traditional household duties.

wear everything from dresses to trousers

nation of genderless babies. The idea

Some critics state that a consequence of

and although Pop is aware of physical

of

the casi-dominance of women is expressed

differences between the two sexes, Pop’s

feelings of an impending emasculation of

parents avoid using personal pronouns by

the eradication of gender, citizens will

men. However, the Swedish pro-female

referring to Pop - as Pop.

become perceived more as human beings

a

somewhat

androgynous

society

culture is reinforced by the government’s

Basing her decision on feminist

decision, taken in 1972, to ensure equal

philosophy, which states that gender is a

both become one.

opportunities between the two sexes.

social construct, Pop’s mother explained

Secondly,

The struggle for parity, in Sweden,

to an online news portal, The Local, that

children can build their own dispositions as

starts at a young age. In kindergarten,

she simply wanted Pop to grow up freely

individuals not hindered by predetermined

without

these

stereotypes,

notions of what they should be and how

female and male toddlers play with all kinds of toys and in schools, cooking, sewing,

and less as stereotypes. Male or female:

mould.

they should live their lives.

and wood-shop classes are compulsory for

The idea, although revolutionary,

Albeit controversial, it is not an

both sexes. Furthermore, working parents

is highly debated amongst scholars and

unimpressive feat that on the whole,

are entitled 16 months paid leave per child

has been argued to be detrimental to

Sweden

(at 80 percent pay), which they divide

baby Pop. Some believe that prenatal sex

‘end’- if not at least a lessening- of gender

equally between mother and father. Thus,

hormones play a considerable role on the

based stigma, nationwide, through the

it is not an uncommon sight, in Sweden, to

masculinisation or feminization of the brain.

deconstruction of gender.

see a father happily pushing a stroller in the

As such, children should be reared to live

16

brought

about

a

supposed

“

Culture One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman.

”

© rola Zyada

17

Culture

INFLATION: OH HOW THE PRICES HAVE RISEN!

BY HOSSAm YAHiA

© Furibond

18

When you are standing at the cash

Fatma, a resident of Al-Abbasiya

register at the supermarket and you realize

in central Cairo, interestingly explains that

Cigarettes, soft drinks, mobile phone

that the same bundle of products you

her electricity bill jumped from 21 L.E

usage, cement, steel rebar and alcoholic

used to purchase, just a couple of weeks

to 32 L.E in just one month, while her

drinks. Accordingly, once these taxes are

ago, for 400 L.E rapidly crept up to 430

gas bill climbed to 30 L.E as opposed

imposed, you will probably pay an extra 2.5

L.E (assuming that you did not receive a

to an average of 10LE. She states, “My

LE for your favorite imported cigarettes. If

promotion on this particular day) you will

consumption level has not changed. I live

you are a beverage addict, you will notice

most probably involuntarily shove some

alone with my daughter who occasionally

a 25 percent rise in taxes on local and

purchases aside in order to give priority to

spends the night with me every now and

imported soft drinks, including Pepsi and

your other necessary expenses.

then.”

Coca-Cola.

This frequent situation alludes to

Sami Mohammed, a 49-year-

The most common complaint

old civil worker, has been struggling with

from travel agencies that primarily rely on out-going trips for Egyptians, is that

of most goods and services continually rise rapidly while the purchasing power of

negotiations for these unfortunate price

the Egyptian upper-middle class is not

money also decreases. When this takes

escalations. “Recent price increases are

as invested in out-going summer trips

place, standards of living tend to fall. This

because of the IMF talks,” says the father of

anymore due to the current economic

is because each pound buys less than it

two “Once the deal is concluded, prices will

tension; in critical times, the need to save

used to, thus, one has to spend more in

escalate even higher. I can barely feed my

order to acquire the exact same goods and

sons as it is, all the prices have doubled.”

expenses becomes crucial.

But it seems that it is not just

services.

Adam

of

consequences this time; the Egyptian

(CAPMAS)

annual

upper middle class is also beginning to feel

February 2013 from 2.8 percent to 8.7

hikes, the top of these being energy and

impertinence and presumption… in kings

percent, reaching its highest monthly rate

fuel prices. One cannot help but wonder

and ministers, to pretend to watch over the

since 2010, consequently causing prices to

what this phenomenon implies for low-

economy of private people, and to restrain

soar across all sectors in Egypt.

income households.

their expense... They are themselves

the

masterpiece

The

gave

father

for Public Mobilization and Statistic’s report,

economics,

the

According to The Central Agency recent

modern

Smith,

low income families that will suffer the

Wealth

a

valuable

of

Nations,

eloquently concluding that “It is the highest

always, and without any exception, the

CAPMAS’ head major general Abu Bakr El-Guindy explained that the

Government announcements, the majority

greatest spendthrifts in the society. Let

biggest upswings were in food prices, which

of Egyptians will be excluded from fuel

them look well after their own expense, and

went up by 2.9 percent since January. The

subsidization, meaning that, under a type

they may safely trust private people with

increase of pharmaceutical prices has also

of rationing system, only the most deprived

theirs.”

affected the local health care sector, which

will be provided with smart cards that will

is something that will certainly burden low-

allow them access to limited amounts of

income households, as almost their entire

subsidized fuel.

income is spent on necessary goods;

This simply means that if you

historically these households have primarily

have a car with a 1600 CC ,or more, engine,

been the ones to suffer the consequences

you will pay approximately 5.90 LE by July,

of any economic recession that has taken

instead of 1.90 LE (its current price) for the

place in Egypt.

most commonly used 92 octane gas. So

In households

the across

past

few

Egypt

months,

have

been

surprised by their electricity and gas bills,

if you are typically extravagant, I strongly

“

does not ruin the

advise you against it.

The

government’s

future

which have been rising without any prior

plans include also raising taxes on mass

notice.

consumed

goods

and

services,

Adam Smith

but

19

”

MARRIAGE: THE INSTITUTION

BY ENGY SHAABAN Marriage is essentially a social union between spouses, a foundation for the

of it did not mean the marriage was void.

wondered why someone at City Hall should

The church, like the tribal priest of ancient

have to listen to their vows in order for them to be legitimate? The point of the ceremony

building of a network of interpersonal relationships. This network is the family, a natural and sacred form of union that has

regulations of marriage have changed quite

but if you don’t believe in God what is the

always been present in humanity. So, then,

a bit since then. Starting with the Marriage

point? Even believers question why their

why is it that we need the approval of the

Act in 1753, in order for a marriage to be

marriages are unrecognized if they only

government to build these relations? More

recognized, it had to commence with a

sanctify them religiously and not legally.

importantly, why have we come to accept

religious ceremony that was recognized by

Of course civil marriage allows the state

such a system?

the state.

to prevent practices such as clandestine

As far back as historical records

Marriage, with regards to the

go, marriage has occurred for various

legal faction, is called civil marriage. Civil

reasons.

political

marriage requires that a record be kept

reasons; a practice that goes back to the

of every marriage transaction that occurs

way to escape them. In America, marriage

time of the societies of the West and the

in a state and sets some ground rules,

laws differ from state to state. If a couple is

ancient civilizations of the East. People also

concerning age, consent, and gender

too young to marry, it jumps states. When

People

marry

for

marriages or statutory marriage.

But if you really think about it,

to name a few, which must be followed. reasons. The institution of marriage used to

In

this day and age, we constantly see

and Wales, people would go to Scotland

be a religious one in which the ceremony

protests that contest the legal institution

to avoid its regulations. So what exactly is the point of the state controlling marriage?

had to be conducted in the presence of a tribal priest, at a sacred temple, or in the

different aspects of it, the core idea is the

And why is it that we have come to fully

church, depending on the time and place

same. The most common of these protests

accept the authority of the state when it comes to such matters? Perhaps as

being refereed too. In ancient Greece, sometimes all that was required was mutual

argument focuses on the point that the

citizens we are partially to blame, we are

agreement between the couple. So when

discriminatory nature of marriage violates

only human after all and as humans we

did marriage become a legal institution?

many constitutional amendments or other

Now there are rules and regulations and

similar values of human freedom. Basically,

or someone ‘credible’, must accept what

the legal institution of marriage allows the

we are doing, and must sanctify it. We

Historians say that marriage initially

state to keep tabs on its citizens and have

became legalized in Europe with the

a hand in determining whether or not the

university degree; the former tells us that

passing of “Lord Hardwicke’s Marriage Act”

marriage is legitimate, and how inheritance

we are “rightfully” married, while the latter,

in 1753. Previously, in the medieval period,

should be conducted, etc. Divorce is also

depending on where it’s from, tells us how

marriage was governed by the canon law

something else that the state controls.

smart or academically successful we are,

of the church, meaning that only the two

The system of annulment or divorce tells

or how much we deserve certain careers,

parties had to have consent and promise

a person whether or not they have a right

statuses, or respect. Both institutions grant

to take each other as husband and wife,

to get divorced and also dictates the rights

us recognizable honour. But did this honour

no witnesses or special ceremony was

they should walk away with.

not exist without their acknowledgement?

required. The couple was asked to obtain “a

Marriage began as a religiously

about.

marriage licence” from the church, creating a binding contract to marry; the licence

another institute that grants the government

had no political backdrop and the absence

higher power. Atheists, especially, have

20

Now that is truly something worth thinking

Culture

Š rola Zyada

21

Arts

THE PHILOSOPHY OF FASHION QUESTIONS WITH DEANA SHAABAN

BY HAmS FATHY Q&A DS: What motivates me to design is the idea that clothing should dignify a woman.

That when she puts on a garment she should look majestic and beautiful; clothing should not demean a woman. Our clothing is an extension of who we are and not separate from us. I think that when a woman puts on a dress, the image of her should remain in people’s minds long after she has left the room. I am fascinated by the idea that in a square piece of fabric of what it can be transformed into and the only thing limiting it is my knowledge.

HF: How much of ‘you’ and your experiences are put into your clothes?

DS: I think every ounce of me, all of my experiences, my beliefs, my likes and dislikes, people I have encountered, heart ache that I have had and emotional ups My designs have differed throughout seasons not only based on themes, but also based on where I am at in my life. I think that happens with every designer. We are an accumulation of our experiences and emotions and that may intentionally or and in our art. I don’t think it can be any other way and I think it’s beautiful because we end up telling stories through our work.

HF: What are your hopes for your label?

DS: My hope for my label is to be a global brand. I want the world to recognize Deana Shaaban as an Egyptian brand and a successful global brand. I want my work and my brand to help revive Egypt as a main decider for the world’s fashion and bring back the beauty and importance that art once had in Egypt’s history. When back to Egypt in any way that I possibly could and if my work can contribute to the betterment of individual lives and eventually a country as a whole, then I think my work will have had some meaning. Currently we contribute a percentage of every item

22

sold to some sort of charity or individuals in need and with time and as we grow as a label, my hopes are that we are able to help on a much larger scale with bigger projects.

HF: Some people view fashion as frivolous or just indulgent, what do you think?

DS: I think, just like with anything, it can be. However, I think it is much more than that. I believe our clothing is an extension of who we are. I don’t think our clothing are just items that we place on our bodies.

This is why I always encourage people to wear whatever it is they feel like wearing because it helps us discover who we are.

If we dress how other people think we should dress, we end up loosing ourselves somewhere along the line and it causing a rift in our personalities. I think we should always be true to who we are and true We identify people from different cultures, ideologies, personality types based on the way they are dressed. So it only seems right that we should dress however we believe to be right for us, even if that means waltzing around in garbage bags. out who they are, and on that journey we often feel the need to experiment with

they are expected to “Play” the role of a feminine woman but at the same time accomplish what men must accomplish.

And to be honest, I think women are more than capable of accomplishing just about anything, it’s all in about how sh manages her life and the men around her.

HF: Do you believe you exist in the ‘fashion industry’? How do you see your job?

DS: I’m not gonna lie to you, I’m not particularly a fan of the fashion industry.

I’m not into fashion, I’m madly in love with every inch of the world around us can contribute to my designs. The possibilities are endless and I get heart palpitations just at the thought of what can be!

I believe I am a part of the fashion industry however my focus is ultimately on design form, I think it’s exhilarating. I think the possibilities are endless and I think that’s where my job lies.

HF: Can you walk us through your design process?

DS: Before I begin designing any collection, there usually is a purpose to this seasons collection. I spend a good few months researching the idea for the collection and putting together mood

factor in who we are, I believe we should all be given that room for self-discovery.

HF: How do you think fashion plays into women’s roles in society?

DS: I think fashion plays a very large role on women’s lives. I think there are certain expectations of them that they must always look feminine but at the same time be expected to dress in a way that shows strength if she holds a job of power.

And if she doesn’t have a job of power then she must dress in a way that can allow her to be “Worthy” of that power.

Women, if too attractive won’t be taken as seriously but at the same time must be attractive enough to be noticed. It’s a

collection, I begin sketching and designing keeping in mind fabrics, colors, and all the elements that will compose this collection.

Once that is done, patterns for the designs get made, fabric is then bought and then production can begin. Along the way, some designs might be altered because sometimes once the designs are materialized, I discover perhaps its not as great as I thought it would be so they get amended or thrown out all together.

It’s a process, nothing is ever really set in stone and experimentation is always done.

Some of my best designs took several tries before it came out in a way that I fell in love with.

Š Nathalie maher

23

REACQUAINT YOURSELF WITH YOUR HOMETOWN

RABAB NEMR’S “IN THE LOVE OF ALEXANDRIA.” BY mENNATAllA dAW

images courtsey of the artist

The connection with one’s hometown, once established, resonates on many different levels across one’s life. And what manifestation should this profound connection take if it’s the life of an artist who devoted her life to serve her passion - art?

The answer to this question lies within the walls of the Zamalek Art Gallery,

24

“In the Love of Alexandria,” the most recent

She describes this love saying, “I am very

exhibition of the infamous artist Rabab Nemr.

attached to Alexandria, particularly Bahari.

I have had the privilege of interviewing Nemr,

Bahari is so rich, with the simple lifestyles,

further gaining insight to her passion, art, will, and even interpretations of selected pieces.

An experience so replenishing, I will attempt

as they come out of the sea, and their sale

to share with you to the best of my efforts.

Nemr’s inspiration comes from her unmitigated love for her hometown.

captivated. Alexandria inspires me to an

Arts Another

piece

displays

the

centered about it.”

Another piece hosts a man and his wife, hugging in front of a large tree.

Nemr’s will is ever so present

interpret that piece, Nemr fondly replied,

as well. When asked about the challenges

Nemr adds, as our conversation moves to the direction of that piece, that this is

she encountered as a female artist, she

exhaustion of a laborious day? It’s in the

in Al-Shalalat, a garden in Alexandria that

unwaveringly replied, “We, females, are the

Qahwa, where they will play cards, and

is full of trees, where families gather. The

ones who challenge. We challenge, and

not so commonly dominos. In Bahari, you

painting exudes the romance of Egyptians,

traditional wooden tables. They will play

as well as their appreciation for nature,

produce, whether we are poets, artists, or anything else. I draw, I create art, I showcase it, and they

greenery,

will never stop me

peace.

from doing so.” She

T

and h

e

goes on to talk about

use of the word

one of her pieces in

‘replenishing’ in the

her current exhibition;

text is by no means

“There is the Egyptian

coincidental.

Slightly

jealous,

above all people who

but mainly awed

are drawn in black and

by Nemr’s passion

white,

we

that is so glaringly

are all one, regardless

present in “In the

of our gender, and

Love of Alexandria,”

our

because

ages.

Women,

I felt reinvigorated;

and

children,

my perception of

we are all one, under

my own hometown

men,

rehabilitated towards its original our

protector.”

This

bearings.

Looking

painting is so powerful,

beyond

that I kept staring at

congested

it for a considerable

and bustling fumes

amount of time. The

that carry a life of

unfathomable

facial

their own, in my

that

hometown Cairo, I

expressions

are nearly identical across all faces are

the roads

decided to see, once again, the beauties

immensely bewildering. All miens harboring

clothes, after earning their Rizk, before the

that this city so unabashedly beholds.

a mixture of pride, graveness, loss, and

groups dismantle and go to their separate

Beauties that bear mesmerizing intensities

hope at the same time, in black and white,

homes.” The painting’s message seems

to them, ones that should never be

a great contrast to the big and colored

so simple, yet it is so insightful to the daily

undermined. Reacquaint yourself with your hometown; there are several wonders that

top of the large painting. As I gape at the

that extend beyond the boundaries of

painting, I think that Nemr’s message has

the Mediterranean. How closely they

so dexterously come home. We, Egyptians,

live together, and how beautiful and

are patiently awaiting your appreciation.

mesmerizing their lives are.

25

Arts

TO WRITE OR NOT TO WRITE FROM THE FEMALE PERSPECTIVE

BY SArA AHmEd ABdEl AZiZ

For inconceivable reasons, whenever people think of the word ‘writer’, their mind of Victor Hugo, Stephen King, or F. Scott Fitzgerald.

In today’s world, where readers

are still not an overwhelming majority, very few have enough literary experience and patience to not only recognize but also cite prominent female writers.

The lashings that female writers get nowadays stem from recent works that some popular culture writers have published such as Fifty Shades of Grey by E. L. James or - dare we mention it - Twilight

by Stephanie Meyer. Consequentially, the literary audience often perceives women as ‘emotional’ writers who are incapable of veering from clichéd themes such as smutty romance or socialite drama or even meaningless hippie-banter that ultimately

“ 26

doesn’t lead to much insight.

“commonality” but once the Oedipal stage

Critics roll their eyes when the

ends, the male must then identify with his

notion of gender inequality enters the realm

father or his masculine side, which leads

of literature, those who do not sympathize

to his mourning over the lost bond with his

denounce exaggerated complaints and

mother. The male child then tries to salvage

covetousness on the part of supposed

the bond that united him with his mother

‘elitist’ women who can’t write yet still do

by attempting to reconnect with women.

so and expect praise. However, the reason

Writing

from

the

female

perspective

allows male authors to reach implicit rediscrimination against female writers that has been so unjustly thrust upon them

the female voice.

as they lay overshadowed by ‘female–

Furthermore,

in

the

essay

“‘The Blank Page’ and Issues of Female In

the

works

of

Jessica

Benjamin, who focuses on the psychology

Creativity,”

Susan

Gubar

makes

an

interesting point regarding how male writers resort to using literature as a way to craft

explores the Oedipal stage that most

women the way they would like them to be

males go through and how that affects

in contrast to how they are in reality. Their

the male author as a whole. Son and

literary depictions can thus only be referred

“emotional attunement” and empathetic

interlaced with some truth where women

The problem lies in the fact that common ignorance about the female counterpart in the world of literature is extremely detrimental when it comes to intellectual stimulation

”

© Sherin Sabry are the “blank page” upon which the male

Where would pro-female efforts be today if

and female sexuality. For cathartic and

author writes.

it hadn’t been for Gloria Steinem or Simone

awareness reasons, the female writers

de Beauvoir?

base their writings on their reality and not

The problem lies in the fact that common ignorance about the female

Theorist Judith Kegan Gardiner

on some imagination of a male writer who

counterpart in the world of literature is

bases her theories of gender in literary

can merely ‘imagine’ what it’s like to be a

extremely detrimental when it comes to

criticism on differences in the life experiences

woman.

intellectual stimulation. The ‘female outlook

of both genders. Naturally, it is believed that

and feel’ in literature are both priceless

men and women live differently as society

and contribute widely to widening the

dictates on account of their sex; therefore

human’s scope of understanding about contemporary societies.

Ever

since

matter

at

hand

does

writers who write on behalf of women; it is an undeniable fact that men are capable of

in the writing. Accordingly, Gardiner states classical

The

times,

writing from the female viewpoint in a way that is realistic, respectful, and progressive.

women have written about reality from

disjunct fragments, while female characters

The idea is also not to endorse the same

their perspective in a way that cannot

in novels by women tend to dissolve and

number of female writers as men or the

be

male

merge into each other” before specifying

depiction of tantamount female heroines

counterparts. Even those who weren’t

expressed

or

replaced

by

that “female identity is a process” that

in novels. It is about recognition and

allowed to write or feared exposure resorted

affects the personality, which in turn,

valorization. It is about breaking an unjust

to using pen names such as George Sand.

cycle and making it clear to readers that it

Where would the world be today if Maya

Till this day, it is primarily female

is not a harmful act to approach a literary

Angelou had not written about child rape?

writers who can deliver their experiences

work- whether a poem, novel or essay- and

Where would Egyptian women have found

and emotions sincerely and vividly to

they should not be discouraged by the fact

the inspiration to protest in the streets if not

expose some of the most outrageous

that its authorship daringly belongs to a

for the character of Layla in the Open door?

topics, such as domestic violence, rape,

woman rather than a man.

27

PHOTOESSAY: FACES OF FAYOUM

BY SHEriN SABrY

Opinions

MYTH BUSTING: A LIBERAL ARTS DEGREE IN A GLOBALIZED WORLD BY rEFAN ABdElNABi

accepting of all types of people; a Liberal Arts

expresses that “history plays an essential

education is a good way to start!

role in anything.” He added that “it is not

that all American University in Cairo (AUC)

A lack of respect for this educational system

something you do, it is something you

students go through in order to begin

sometimes also means that even professors

acquire.” According to Ezzat, if you are

their career paths. Like people in any

are not as appreciated as they should be. If

planning to continue your education, ARIC

high achievers around you. I understand that

Realizing what’s successful and what was

it’s important for many of us to be able to get

not when learning from the past to enhance

majors, but they do not seem to see the

our “dream jobs” and be well paid. However,

the future, ARIC students in Egypt have a

bigger picture: what is and what is the point

that should not be the most important factor

rich variety of places to explore such as

of a liberal arts university?

when deciding on a career because when we

museums, mosques, and mausoleums, to

are doing the things we love, we will inevitably

name a few; talk about taking full advantage

succeed.

of where you live! The combining of history

Deciding on a major is an

other community, AUC students have

Many

factors

contribute

to

the choice of a major. It could be a

I decided to talk to a couple

decision based on one’s interests, skills, economic,

cultural

or

even

and many other majors is also common because history pervades all.

personal

Why

should

students

be

relations. Regardless, students at AUC

understanding of the importance of a liberal

must complete the Core Curriculum, which

arts education and courses from the students’

is the basis of the liberal arts education at

perspectives as opposed to that which is

Students should know a little something

the university. This program is essentially

offered to us by professionals.

about everything. A Liberal Arts education of

teaches you how to think critically and

mathematics

analytically about a plethora of issues, a

is a major that opens up a lot of doors;

skill we truly need as young people in an

The series of courses, such as Philosophical

mathematics majors are on demand in the

increasingly globalized world. The system at

Thinking and Introduction to Anthropology,

job market. They have the ability to work in

AUC is designed to help you reach further

Arwa primarily, to prepare students to become

Sayyadi,

mathematics,

a

graduate

states

that

student

and further into what you want to achieve

are designed to encourage you to think

beyond basic education. This is a vitality

critically, argue with reason, and analyze your surroundings. There is no exaggeration

accountants in banks, and a plethora of

you cannot get in traditional or technical systems of education.

in saying that this system is liberating. The states that “your professional skills develop

It is always advantageous to look

to your wide range of skills and thorough

when you think creatively; it pushes you to

at any given story from all points of view.

understanding of your environment are

consider solutions from very unusual points

the least of the tremendous advantages

of view and teaches you how to deal with

presented.

many professions.” While there are strong

system requires us to be interested, hard

With the diffusion and mixture of

mathematics programs in the Middle East,

working, and last but not least, accepting of

different cultures and religions in the 21st

accepting math as a primary major is still

our uncontrollably versatile and globalized

unpopular in this part of the world.

environment. Believe it or not, if you love

Civilizations

and work hard enough on something, you

with

(ARIC), as I found out, is a very well equipped

will achieve great success because such an

acknowledging diverse cultures, countries,

major at AUC. Mohamed Ezzat, a junior

attitude is indispensable.

and worldviews. We need to become

majoring in Middle Eastern and Arab History,

perceived assumptions of postmodern thought.

32

People

still

struggle

Arab

and

Islamic

MEN AND TALENT DON’T MIX

BY YOumNA A. HAZZAA

“

I think everybody’s weird. We should all celebrate our individuality and not be embarrassed or ashamed of it.

Johnny Depp

”

guy to be in art or music; I don’t think it

Inequality is a very broad topic in many

forms; ranging from race and ethnic groups

because men are shy to get involved in

makes him any less of a guy; however, the

to class status and gender. We witness

such things. They say it’s not manly enough,

problem is the job opportunities provided

this inequality daily, not only in our Egyptian

because here in Egypt bachelors of music

by our societies for such majors; they

and Arab society, but also all around the

or arts are not as respected as doctors

don’t make for lifetime occupations. I think

world. However, an issue that is not as

or engineers. So some men, especially in

society threatens the manly hood of those

frequently addressed is gender inequality

AUC, tend to suppress their talents and

who major because it’s the only way to

towards men.

major in something socially acceptable,

make them divert away from taking such a

Ask a guy what degree he is

like engineering, while some of the best

decision, which is as bad as it gets, being

pursuing, and more often than not, you will

musicians are engineers. After a while, they

called feminine or not manly enough is the

get the same expected answer. Personally,

would decide to try out an art or music

worst that could happen in our society. All

most of the guys I know are pursuing an

class, maybe even decide to double major,

societies prefer other majors because they

Engineering degree, the rest opting for

because it’s in their blood and they can’t

have more opportunities that keep the

Business or Economics ones. Why are men

suppress it anymore. I think it’s something

economy to keep going.”

not accepted in arts and music? The usual

everybody should be proud of – males and

What I found to be noteworthy

response is that these majors aren’t manly

females! It’s not something to be shy of and

was the fact that many males refused

enough or that our society doesn’t regard

by taking their talents seriously, people will

to provide an opinion beyond the usual

them in a positive light. The underlying issue

eventually respect them.”

shunning of the decision. What I found most impressive was the female reaction towards

that is not addressed though is that these Alia El Saady – English and Comparative

this topic; they found it important and

Let’s run through prominent male artists for

Literature Major:

immediately saw the point: men do suffer

a minute: Pablo Picasso, Leonardo Di Vinci,

“If you want my opinion I think it takes a

from inequality as well. Yes, men aren’t as

Jackson Pollack, Beethoven, Frank Sinatra,

lot of guts to do what you love. Society

suppressed as women, but the point of this

Elton John, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, to

programs us to be practical but it doesn’t

article is to show that they do also suffer

name a few. So when and why has society

say anything about being happy.”

of it, to a certain degree, but in a different sense. To some, majoring in arts or music

decided that men are now not accepted in arts and music? What happened along

Salma Rizk – IMC Major:

isn’t such a big deal. But put yourself in the

the way that made society claim that these

“I think students should be allowed to major

shoes of those who care about this and ask

in whatever they choose. If it’s what they’re

yourself, “Is it fair that a man doesn’t get

passionate about, nobody has the right to

to do what he is passionate about simply

This is not an article that explores

tell them otherwise. If you truly love your

because it would label him as effeminate?”

my own perspective, but one that gives

major/job, trust me, you are most likely to

At the end of the day, it’s the same concept;

people the to opportunity to speak out and

succeed! And so, if a guy wants to major in

women are told what is expected of them,

hear what others have to say.

music, or art, or theater, LEAVE HIM TO IT.

which why they should act, and how they

He’s probably brilliant.”

should dress, and men are told how to act

men?

and speak, what to wear and study, and

Here are the voices: Nesma Mahgoub – Musical Performance

Yomna Omar – Psychology Major:

even, in some cases, what genre of music

Major & Theatre Minor:

“I know what you mean! A friend of mine

to listen to. Inequality, unfortunately, goes in

“We’ve always had this problem. In theatre

loves acting but ended up going into civil

auditions, many girls come but only very

both directions – blue and pink.

33

NAMING AND SHAMING CONFRONTING THE SEXUAL HARRASSER BY mAY SEOud

images via Wikimedia commons

34

Opinions Naming and shaming is the solution that

group or the effort put by young adults

paid enough attention or because no one is

crossed the mind of an AUCian after being

to protect a woman’s dignity and body. It

willing to admit that it is maybe, just maybe

sexually harassed by a middle class man

will not be about the predictions of what

not because of her clothing, or maybe, just

while driving her car. It was her last and only

such a Facebook group or group of young

maybe it is not because of her attitude and

effective option after Tahrir Bodyguards took

adults can change, perhaps the behavior

maybe, just maybe her behavior was not

of women when discriminated against, in

the reason and perhaps he is in fact just

can make a difference. Our AUCian is a

terms of encouraging them to take actions

another criminal that deserves nothing but

veiled young lady whose harasser- who is

or speak up? Perhaps making men and

punishment. It is about people who would

as old as her own father- kept winking at

women see the ugly truth and that the

blame the victim for naming and shaming,

her, blowing kisses in the air and waving

85% of women in Egypt being harassed

claiming that it is wrong and irreligious but

with a sarcastic smile on his face the

will not stop to blame the harasser. It is

moment she took her phone and decided

exception? Or maybe an attempt to make

about a deaf, blind and crippled society

to take a picture of him. Going back home

harassers aware of the crime they have

that suffocates women and enjoys it.

committed? Only in a society like ours,

Our society fails to see or grasp the idea

disgust she decides to post the pictures of

dear readers, a society in which women

that sexual harassment is no less of a crime

that man on Facebook, hoping that it would

are seen as sexual objects, that should be

than murder or theft. In all three crimes

be shared over and over again till someone

blamed for the unethical behavior of men,

something has been taken away with no

recognizes him and maybe, just maybe

the questions will unfortunately only revolve

right or permission. Whether it was the life

that will bring some embarrassment and

around how “ethical” or even “religious” it

of an innocent person, a sum of money that

shame into his life. Trying to target as many

is to name and shame harassers that have

has been stolen or a body of a woman that

people as possible she creates a Facebook

committed the crime of oppressing women

has been touched without her permission,

page, “some sort of a personal record” she

and taking advantage of their bodies. The

it doesn’t make a difference. A crime is a

says, that is supposed to have the pictures

actions of men will never be questioned,

crime and a criminal is a criminal. Naming

instead woman’s integrity and honesty will

and shaming a harasser is not unethical or

-on March 14th – that it already got more

always be a source of doubt; what if she is

irreligious, harassing women IS unethical

than 3000 likes, and later, after one month,

not saying the truth? What if she was the

and irreligious. Naming and shaming the

23000 likes. Naming and shaming is a

one who triggered him to sexually harass

harasser is the same idea as naming and

concept that has started earlier in Egypt,

her? Are we sure that she didn’t ask for it?

shaming a serial killer, one has taken the

It is again and always around that devilish

lives of innocent people and another has

and after hundreds of women went through

creature that should be blamed for all evil,

taken the dignity of innocent women whose

traumatic experiences that will hunt them

the woman.

only fault was the fact they they were born

till the day they die. Capturing harassers

It is not just about growing up in a

in a society like ours, a society that values

and using paint or spray to mark them as

society where the victim- of course only if

the dominance of a man even if he is a

criminals was the beginning, and posting

it is a woman- is constantly being blamed

harasser. Would they stop for a second to

harassers’ pictures online is nothing but a

for nothing but being the victim. It is about

consider if naming and shaming a serial

further step. How far this can go and what it

the fact that speaking up about sexual

killer was unethical or irreligious? The

will eventually achieve is a question that will

harassment is a taboo that brings shame

question here is not whether shaming and

remain unanswered for now.

to the victim, let alone actually talking

naming is wrong or right, it is neither about

Only in a society like ours, a society

about it and blaming a MAN. It is all and

the intentions of the harassers nor the

that refuses to blame the man and admit

only about women that end up hating who

faults of the women. The question here is

for once that it is not always the woman’s

they are, blaming themselves and trying

about how to support the victim and punish

fault as it is claimed by people, Nile-Sat

the criminal. The question here is how to

Sheikhs or Shura Council members, the

this is what they’ve been taught. It’s about

discussions will not revolve around the

a society in which women cannot prove

obvious success of such a Facebook

what has happened, either because no one

accepted would be “whatever it takes.”

35

Opinions

“TERRORISM” AS A COUNTER DISCOURSE: AN ONTOLOGICAL, CRITICAL UNDERSTANDING OF A SOCIAL FACT BY miNA AdEl

© Olle Johansson “We see things not as they are,

commonly known as the 9/11events that

but as we are,” said Anais Nin, an American

occurred more than ten years ago, and we

One should communicate with

author with Spanish-Cuban roots. Nin

have heard of other, so called, “terroristic”

the “terroristic” attacks as products of a

incidents. Have you ever asked yourself,

social and political complex as whole, and

after seeing such massacres, the following

not as separate acts surprisingly committed

question, “do I see what I know or do I

by

know what I see?” Frankly speaking, what

against the global political and economic

within the context of her quote. The term and conceiving things according to what we know and perceive. In contrast to Nin,

ask how that order came around?

abnormal

and

deviant

“terrorists”

orders. In other words, “terrorism” should

the Indian leader, Mahatma Gandhi, said

usually comes across your mind? That

be politicized and historicized; it should

“we must be the change we wish to see

these terrorists are Muslims or are people

move out from being just a consistently

in the world.” Gandhi here illustrates the

from developing, savage countries who

securitized crisis by those who own the

meaning of “ontology” - knowing what we

intend to destroy the civilization of the

mechanisms of the production of the

see so as to be able to change it.

“adequate” knowledge. In other words, in

We all saw what happened in

ontologically…that you should stand apart

Boston last month, we remember what is

from the prevailing order of the world and

36

order to understand why an occurrence

“

One should communicate with the “terroristic” attacks as products of a social and political complex as whole, and not as separate acts surprisingly committed by abnormal and deviant “terrorists” against the global political and economic orders.

”

out reasons for any “terroristic” attack, put

be reckoned with.” I presume we are not

what Antonio Gramsci, the Italian scholar

the historical context into consideration

SUPPOSED to know or to hear.

and activist, called the integral state. The

together with all the political, economic,

This is not to say that we should

integral state is a hegemonic dictatorship,

and social measurements. Ben Laden

victimize the “terrorists” or that they always

in which the entire complex of practical

and his Qaeda were allies with the United

and theoretical activities are controlled by

States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)

intend to do. However, we should not

the ruling class, which, in its turn, does not

during the 1980s, combating together

treat the “terrorists” as absolutely criminal

only justify and maintain its dominance, but

the communists of the Soviet Union in

elements who are against the absolute

also “manages to win the active consent

Afghanistan. The United State’s gigantic

truth of the powerful and the dominant. It

of those over whom it rules.” Therefore,

fears of any nuclear act of terror by North

has always been, and will always be, about

this integral state is composed of not

Korea or Iran and its efforts to contain the

a permanent struggle of discourses. Sean

only a political society that is protected

possibility of the happening of such threat

McMahon, an associate professor at the

by the repressive means of coercion, but

should

be

understandable;

especially

also of social forces that include a vast

taking into consideration the two nuclear

the term discourse as “the rules and the

number of institutions, agencies, and

bombs directed against the Japanese cities

utterances, by which you should abide by in

organizations that ideologically organize the

of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during WWII.

order to be ‘true’.” Throughout the history

contemplations and the deliberations of the

Can we call this “terrorism?” I suppose

of humanity, people attempted to counter

people about the notion of “terrorism.”

we MUST not. Furthermore, the militant

and to deconstruct the dominant discourse

In

operations that are carried out from one

and to come up with new ones that are

“terrorism” should be understood as a

time to another by the internationally known

accompanied by new political, economic,

social fact that resulted from historical

“terroristic” groups of Hamas in Palestine

and social structures. This is exactly what

and sociological factors, and as a method

and by Hezbollah in Lebanon against the

I mean with my earlier reiteration that

of political violence that aims to achieve

Zionist state of Israel were preceded by

“terrorism” should move out from being just

revolutionary changes and not just as a

more severe acts of “terrorism” from the

a consistently securitized crisis by those

social brute. This perspective on “terrorism”

side of the ethno-nationalists Zionist militias

who own the mechanisms of the production

is very much related to the Critical Security

of the Irgun and the LEHI. These acts were

of the “adequate” knowledge. The word

Studies (CSS), which is different from

conducted not only against the Arabs but

“terrorist” is not an objective category; it

the Realist Security ones that are only

also against the British colonial forces that

is a label that is discursively constructed

interested in investigating the current

were settled in Palestine before the United

in speech and concrete policies by

order, and in which the changes would be

Nations declaration that has approved the

those who can represent someone or

accomplished in militant means merely by

establishment of a new state on the holy

something as existential threats, against

the state. The CSS, in contrast, is people-

lands. Did you ever hear about the actions

whom extraordinary measures should be

centered; it is very much concerned with

or even the names of the Irgun and the

mobilized.

emancipation; questioning how we get to

LEHI? Did you ever know that one Irgun

Thus,

what

is

meant

conclusion,

the

phenomenon

of

by

where we are through understanding the

leader said that “we must create a situation

“terrorism,” and which group exactly is

historic background of practices so as to

whereby killing an Arab is like killing a rat,

being addressed when a reference to

where Arabs are dirt, thereby showing

“terrorists” is made are questions that are

that we and not they are the power to

continuously produced and reproduced by

change the future.

37

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