Not one more, not one less. The role of education in the fight against gender-based violence

Abstract

In Italy, multiple forms of violence persist that constitute the culture of rape, a pyramid at the top of which is femicide. This work describes the transmission pathways of this culture, which has been strengthening over time. From a Deweyan perspective of problem-defined-solution-seeking, the gender perspective intersects with Sexuality Education as a possible way to counteract violence. An active role of education can contribute to positive change by fostering critical thinking rather than conformity rules, helping to reduce stereotypes and violence. However, it is emphasized that interventions on multiple levels - educational, political, and social - are necessary.