Feminism

Question 1

What do feminists argue about religion

Answer 1

1. There will never be gender equality as long as notions of god continue to be associated with masculinity
2. Religion is patriarchal; it socialises women into traditional norms
3. Religion is a form of social control; used by men to regulate women’s behaviour and sexuality

Question 2

What does Simone De Beauvoir argue about religion

Answer 2

Argues role of religion is to exploit and oppress women; faiths encourage women women to be meek, put up with inequality, be exploited and suffer, all to be rewarded in the afterlife.
Religion provides comfort to women even thought their inferiority to men is divine

Question 3

What does Mary Daly argue about religion

Answer 3

She argues religion is an ideological force that spreads a ‘patriarchal myth’.
Catholic Churches removed early religions which put women at the centre.
Daly talks about a ‘stained glass window’ to refer to the invisible barrier that prevents women from moving into senior positions within the church.

Question 4

How does Linda Woodhead argue religion may not be a form of oppression

Answer 4

She argues religion is not necessarily sexist; religion can provide women with freedom in society. In Islam, the veil is a liberating choice made by women to wear to offer opportunities; to empower themselves and escape the male gaze.

Question 5

Is religion a conservative force according to feminists

Answer 5

Yes it is because for the most part it oppressed women