Feminism Flashcards
What is the core goal of feminism?
To achieve equality between men and women in all areas of life
What is gender?
The socially constructed roles and behaviours associated with being male or female.
What is patriarchy?
A social system where men hold primary power and dominate in roles of political leadership
What is the difference between equality feminism and difference feminism?
Equality feminism seeks equal rights and opportunities; difference feminism values the differences between men and women and argues these should be respected.
What do liberal feminists focus on?
Legal and political equality – equal rights
Name two LIBERAL feminists.
Simone de Beauvior and Charlotte Perkins Gillman
What is the main text by Betty Friedan?
The Feminine Mystique (1963)
What do socialist feminists believe?
Capitalism and patriarchy are linked; women’s oppression is rooted in economic inequality and the capitalist system.
What do radical feminists argue?
Patriarchy is the most fundamental and pervasive form of oppression; society must be radically transformed.
Name a key radical feminist.
Kate Millett.
What is the key text by Kate Millett?
Sexual Politics (1970)
What is cultural feminism?
A strand of radical feminism that celebrates ‘feminine’ traits and argues women should create a separate female culture.
What is difference feminism?
A belief that men and women are inherently different
What is postmodern feminism?
A form of feminism that challenges fixed ideas about gender and focuses on fluidity and diversity of identity.
How do feminists view the state?
Varies: liberal feminists seek reform via the state; radical feminists often see the state as an instrument of patriarchal control.
How do feminists view society?
Society is deeply patriarchal and needs reform or radical restructuring to achieve equality.
How do feminists view human nature?
Generally believe in the potential for gender equality
What do feminists think about equality?
All feminists support some form of equality
How do radical and liberal feminists differ on the family?
Liberal feminists seek reform within existing family structures; radical feminists often see the family as inherently oppressive and seek alternatives.
How do socialist feminists propose to liberate women?
Through economic revolution or reform
What is the feminist view on capitalism?
Socialist feminists see capitalism as a root cause of women’s oppression; liberal feminists are less critical of capitalism.
What do feminists say about women’s representation in politics?
Women are underrepresented in political institutions; many feminists advocate for quotas and other mechanisms to address this.
What is the ‘personal is political’?
A slogan of radical feminism meaning that personal experiences (e.g. domestic life
What reforms have liberal feminists campaigned for?
Equal pay
