Feminism

Question 1

Overview

Answer 1

Religion is a conservative force; an instrument of patriarchy and a force of social control and oppression

Question 2

Intro

Answer 2

follow Marxist theories in arguing that religion can be an instrument of social control and oppression. However, unlike Marxism, they see religion as a product of patriarchy rather than as a product of capitalism. Religion serves the interests of men

dominance of males in religion reflect the powerful positions of men in society. Men have the power to define religion in their own terms and to justify their position as God-given. In this way religion functions as a patriarchal ideology

Question 3

A03

Answer 3

However, the oppression of women by religion is not inevitable. Historically women have not always been subordinate within religions. Early religions placed women at the centre of their belief systems; for example, the Great Mother Goddess played a crucial role in pre-Christian societies by representing the mysteries of fertility and life