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| Luluk Dwi Kumalasari, M.Si., a sociology lecturer at Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) (Photo: Vivin Humas) |
Recently, a comment by a prominent celebrity about independent women and well-established men went viral. This also caught the attention of Luluk Dwi Kumalasari, M.Si., a sociology lecturer at Muhammadiyah Malang University (UMM). She noted that the statement reflects a complex social reality that requires deeper understanding.
"An independent woman is someone who is empowered, self-reliant, and holds firm life principles. However, this concept is often misunderstood as merely economic freedom. In fact, independence also includes the ability to think rationally and wisely in facing various life challenges," Luluk said.
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She emphasized that the increasing number of independent women in Indonesia is not limited to those who are single but also includes women who are married. Furthermore, Luluk highlighted the differences between the concepts of female independence and male stability. She noted that stability is often narrowly interpreted as financial sufficiency. "True stability is much broader. A person can be considered stable when they are personally grounded, take responsibility for themselves, and are capable of contributing to others, such as their family," she explained.
She also noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted socio-economic dynamics. Many men experienced a decline in social standing due to layoffs and business bankruptcies.
"This phenomenon may contribute to the perception that the number of well-established men is decreasing, but we need to view it from a broader perspective. Stability is not solely about finances; it is also about the ability to persevere and recover," she added.
In the digital era, social media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion. However, Luluk emphasized the importance of adopting a critical attitude toward circulating information. She noted that the current generation tends to think instantaneously, often sharing information without proper verification. "This is very risky, especially when issues like female independence and male stability are being debated," she said. She also stressed the need for filtering and critically analyzing social media news to avoid getting caught in the flow of misleading information.
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According to Luluk, the notion that the rise of independent women reduces opportunities for men is misguided. She urged men to approach this issue wisely and without emotional reactions. "Such statements often stem from narrow perspectives or specific cases, and therefore do not represent the majority. We must avoid generalizations that could lead to gender-based animosity," she explained.
In closing, Luluk delivered a message to the younger generation to become wise individuals, especially in using social media. She encouraged them to appreciate the concepts of independence and stability in a positive light."Being independent does not mean boundless freedom but rather having strong principles while still respecting others. Similarly, being well-established is a quality that must be achieved with responsibility and perseverance," she concluded. (Vin/Wil*/Ind)
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