A quick dictionary search of the term ‘equivalence’ forwards
on to the definitions of ‘equivalence’ which speak of equality, likeness with
regards to use or purpose. A search of the term ‘equivalence’ on google brings
up an array of pages detailing and explaining the scientific and mathematical variations
of equivalence. False equivalence, with regards to political systems is also
prevalent amongst the results of the search. Thinking about how ‘equivalence’
relates to our recent class readings I am drawn to the idea of equivalence between
the sexes.




Although a humorous image that once made me laugh at an early hour, it serves
the point of questioning the constructed norms of how we view males and females
in simple iconography. Although these two icons provide the function of
upholding the social construct of gendered bathrooms. That they are different
images draws us to thinking about perceived differences verses actual
differences and this is where equivalence comes into play. If we take the first
definition of equivalent from Merriam Webster: ‘equal in force, amount, or value; also : equal in area or volume but not superimposable <a square equivalent to a triangle>’
the media above embodies this idea as the two signs suggest equal spaces yet
are not superimposable in shape.