"I illustrate quite a lot about double standards between men and women, but as my audience is 95% female, it is usually from a female perspective," Lainey told Bored Panda.
"It's easy for us to relate to how the world forces us into a strict lane, while in so many ways men just breeze past us. I knew that illustrating a reverse universe where men are in the strict lane would be something so surreal, it would resonate with everyone, regardless of gender," the artist explained the roots of the series.
"Little girls are raised differently than little boys, right from birth, and sometimes these biases are so subconscious, even those who don't wish to uphold the current patriarchal system or gender norms fall for them, so I think it's important to constantly be aware of what to watch out for."
In part, that can be explained by the (perceived) differences in expectations for men and women. Americans, for example, believe that honesty and morality are what the general public wants to see in males, as well as financial success and leadership.
Meanwhile, women are expected to be physically attractive and nurturing.
We need to have conversations about these rigid stereotypes and what we should do about them, and Lainey's work provides us with an online space to do just that.
Lainey revealed that she's frequently told her content is bitter, negative, and angry, but she disagrees with such an assessment.
"It's simply the 'raising awareness' bit and as it is usually raising awareness to some kind of injustice and unfair conditions, it naturally won't be happy and uplifting," she explained.
"But awareness is just the first step, the rest is empathy, kindness, change, and community. Which are also crucial parts of what I do and what I stand for. So this series is just a visual representation of what we need to be aware of so we can start creating a fairer and kinder world — for women and everyone else."
As is often the case with the artist's works, 'Imagine a World Like This' has become a hit, and received plenty of reactions: the series got over 1,400 comments on Instagram alone.
"I was surprised that the reaction was so overwhelmingly positive and self-reflective," Lainey said. "Of course, there was pushback from men, but I haven't figured out a way to post anything around gender from a female point of view that wouldn't incite the same reaction, so it is something that I have to live with."
"Overall I am very happy that the post gained traction because it starts conversations. In the comments, in homes, in schools, within friend groups. And this is the most important thing."
To continue exploring her creative endeavors, check out Bored Panda's earlier publications 21 Illustrations By Lainey Molnar That Challenge Societal Norms Surrounding Femininity, Body Image, And More as well as 30 Honest And Relatable Comics Exploring Societal Standards By Lainey Molnar.