Beliefs In Society- Feminism & Religion Flashcards
What does Armstrong argue about early religions?
Armstrong argues that until the Bronze Age (4000 years ago), most religions were polytheistic, with many female and male gods, and female gods had central roles. Female priestesses were also common, making early religions non-patriarchal.
How did monotheistic religions affect the role of goddesses?
Monotheistic religions, with a single male god, replaced polytheistic religions, leading to the demise of goddesses and the rise of patriarchal religious structures.
What is the feminist view of monotheistic religions?
Feminists see monotheistic religions as patriarchal, arguing they subordinate, exploit, and oppress women.
How is religion patriarchal in its organization?
Religions are typically led by men, with male founders like Buddha, Jesus Christ, Guru Nanak, and Prophet Mohammed. Even when women are allowed into leadership roles (e.g., nuns), they are subordinate to men, such as priests in Catholicism or monks in Buddhism.
What is an exception to male dominance in religious leadership?
The Protestant Church now allows female priests and bishops, challenging traditional patriarchal structures.
How are patriarchal beliefs and doctrines reflected in religion?
Religious teachings often portray women as inferior. For example, in Christianity, Eve was created from Adam’s rib, and women like the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene are stereotyped as pure or temptresses. In Islam, men can divorce wives easily, while women cannot.
How do religious practices restrict women?
Women are often excluded from full participation in religious ceremonies. For example, in Judaism, women cannot read holy texts or enter the main prayer area, and in Islam, women pray separately from men. Women are also seen as unclean during menstruation and pregnancy in Judaism, Hinduism, and Islam.
What is the radical feminist view of religion?
Radical feminists see religion as a patriarchal institution that benefits men. De Beauvoir argues religion is used to control women, with male power presented as God-given, while Daly claims religion enforces patriarchal ideology through rules for women.
What are criticisms of the radical feminist view?
Critics argue radical feminist views are ethnocentric. For example, Muslim women claim wearing the hijab is liberating, protecting them from objectification.
What does El Sadaawi argue about religion and patriarchy?
El Sadaawi argues religion itself is not patriarchal but is reshaped by patriarchal societies to justify men’s dominance. For example, the Bible was written by men in a patriarchal context.
How does Woodhead view religious feminism?
Woodhead argues that women can use religion to gain freedom and respect. For example, Muslim women wearing the hijab find identity and protection from Western objectification, while Christian women join church groups for support and influence.
What does Gilliat-Ray say about the hijab?
Gilliat-Ray argues young British Muslim women wear the hijab to gain parental approval for attending university, making it liberating as it allows them to enter public spheres without being seen as immodest.
What does Brusco find about Pentecostalism in Colombia?
Brusco found Pentecostalism empowers women by teaching men to respect them, allowing women to influence men’s behavior and reduce macho attitudes.
What does Rinaldo add about piety movements?
Rinaldo argues that even piety movements, which promote traditional gender roles, offer women ways to further their interests, particularly middle-class women in cities who have education and income to pursue their goals.
