Man-oriented

Man-oriented describes a perspective, system, or approach that prioritizes the needs, values, or interests of men, often to the exclusion or detriment of others, particularly women. It can manifest in various contexts, from workplace policies and cultural norms to product design and social structures. This orientation may be unintentional, stemming from historical biases and assumptions, or intentional, reflecting a conscious prioritization of male perspectives. It is important to recognize and address man-oriented biases to ensure fairness, inclusivity, and equitable outcomes for all members of society.

Man-oriented meaning with examples

• The company's promotion structure was criticized as man-oriented. The majority of managers were men, and the criteria for advancement seemed to favor attributes typically associated with male leadership styles, thus systematically disadvantaging women. This led to a lack of diversity in leadership roles and a perception of an uneven playing field, hindering equal opportunities.
• Historically, urban planning has been somewhat man-oriented. Public spaces often prioritize amenities that are considered male, such as sports facilities, over those catering to women's needs, like childcare centers or safe, well-lit pedestrian routes. This can impact accessibility and the ability of women to fully participate in community life.
• Marketing campaigns sometimes fall into the trap of being man-oriented. Advertisements for certain products, like cars or tools, are often created using masculine imagery and appeals, potentially alienating a significant portion of the target audience. Ignoring or misrepresenting female perspectives can damage brand reputation and hinder sales.
• During product development, the design of many items in the past was man-oriented. Features and functions were often tailored to meet male preferences and physical characteristics, neglecting the needs and ergonomics of female users. This often led to product inefficiencies and less than satisfactory experiences.
• Some historical analyses have noted that political narratives can be unintentionally man-oriented. They tend to focus on the actions and accomplishments of men while overlooking or minimizing the contributions of women and other marginalized groups to historical events. This biases historical narratives and understandings.