Those in the west who dismiss the repressiveness of laws against women in countries like Iran, no matter how benign their intentions, present a condescending view not just of the religion but also of women living in Muslim majority countries, as if the desire for choice and happiness is the monopoly of women in the west.

Summary

This quote highlights the tendency of people in the West to overlook or downplay the oppressive laws faced by women in countries like Iran. It argues that such attitudes, even if well-intentioned, reflect a condescending perspective not only towards the religion but also towards women living in Muslim-majority nations. By assuming that only women in the West desire choice and happiness, it suggests that the same desires are not universal and therefore undermines the agency and aspirations of women in those countries.

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