I doubt this will fit in the ask box so I’ll put it here.
To me the two positions are not mutually exclusive, as that is they way I was taught feminism operates; to address both men’s and women’s issues in an attempt to reach gender equality. As someone who has been surrounded by people who have based their lives and work on these principles, it is confusing and disgusting how feminism is being used in first-world countries. I live in a third world country where women are actually oppressed and where an actual “rape culture” (i.e. a culture in which principles of victim blaming and upholding the abuser) is more than prevalent, and to see a term I’d regarded as positive be corrupted by the actions of people 8,290 miles away. I am disturbed by the direction first-world feminism is taking in the modern day, as it seems to be deviating away from it’s original purpose, forgetting those who truly need it’s aid in favor of squabbling about petty issues. However, my goal is to continue advocating for gender equality as I have been, and in doing so continue to perpetuate the feminism I see all around me in real life - the feminism that actually understand and respects everyone as human, and realizes and acknowledges the problems of all genders. So I suppose the bottomline is that I’m attempting to take a critical eye to feminism, defining it my own way by holding up and supporting the positive aspects while addressing and working to eliminate the negatives through discussion.
Additionally, there’s a somewhat less noble reason; practicality. It’s far easier to gather resources and human resources when you identify with a large movement than a small movement like egalitarianism. From a simply utilitarian perspective, it’s far easier to get the required resources for projects towards gender equality. It’s also a great way to network with those who have similar beliefs, and to have constructive discussions with those that don’t.
Apologies if this was a bit rambly and/or hard to follow, just woke up. I believe that I understand your perspective, and I hope now you’ll understand mine aswell. If there’s anything you find incongruous shoot me ask.
TSST: in response to this post http://the-strong-silent-typist.tumblr.com/post/132156965741/hey-self-identified-feminist-fan-of-your-blog
And yes, this does explain a lot and I support your reasoning. I should emphasize that where I live feminism is a lot different than what you describe. I try to include the words “in the first world” “in America” or “in our culture” or “in this society” in my posts to make it clear that there is still room for good movements in other parts of the world where feminist ideals have not been as mistreated as they have been here.