Feminism criticisms

Question 1

Linda Woodhead

Answer 1

Linda Woodhead says it is important to examine how Muslim women interpret their use of the veil. She says feminists fail to recognise the ways in which women can gain greater freedom and respect from wearing the veil.

Eg she says Muslim women can wear the veil as a symbol of resistance to oppression as it enables them to leave the confines of the home and enter the public world of education or work without losing their culture and religious identity. Moreover, the veil empowers Muslim women to participate in society without being seen as sex objects as the veil protects them from the ‘male gaze’

Question 2

Improved rights

Answer 2

As women have gained improved rights in society (Equal pay legislation, anti discrimination laws) they have also gained improved status in religious organisations. Since 1994 women have been ordained as priests in the Church of England and since 2014 women can become bishops in the Church of England.

Question 3

Aldridge

Answer 3

Aldridge also says that although religion may be patriarchal this does not mean they all exploit and oppress women. Some patriarchal religions “provide a haven for women who yearn for the comfort and security of a traditional gender role.” He says women can use religion to gain status and respect in the home.