Feminism - Liberal

Question 1

Name a couple of key terms in liberal feminism.

Answer 1

March of progress view, social policy, legislation

Question 2

Who is a key thinker of liberal feminism?

Answer 2

Jenny Sommerville

Question 3

What did Jenny Sommerville say about liberal feminism?

Answer 3

Women should not feel the need for revolutionary change. There has been many changes to social policy such as the equal pay act, making marital rape illegal and changes to the divorce law show that women are capable of influencing social policy in making it a better society for women.

Question 4

What is an outline view of liberal feminism?

Answer 4

They take a march of progress view, meaning they believe society is getting better for women and women have made a significant gain in society through changes such as abortion pills and divorce acts. They don’t believe that patriarchal nature in society can be avoided through drastic changes and will have to change over time.

Question 5

In studies it is seen that men are now doing more domestic labour, why could this be a good thing?

Answer 5

Because it shows roles of the family are more equal and could mean that both parents have similar aspirations for their children in socialising.

Question 6

Do liberal feminists believe there is still a long time ahead until women reach full equality?

Answer 6

Yes, the march of progress view.

Question 7

What could be some criticisms of Liberal feminists?

Answer 7

1. Everyone in society needs to recognise gender equality otherwise it will always be patriarchal
2. Changes in laws or attitudes does not solve the problems of oppression within women fully like they say
3. This view is too soft in thinking that everything will be put right in time
4. Tries to bring about more social equality without actually changing social structures
5. Changes in legislation does not reflect the beliefs of everyone.

Question 8

What could be some advantages of liberal feminism?

Answer 8

1. Aims for gradual change so its more realistic than others
2. Recognises that men also need to be free
3. Helps to understand the process of sex role socialisation in the family

Question 9

True or false, women express more dissatisfaction with marriage and initiate more divorce proceedings, which is why the changes in legislation where needed.

Answer 9

True, The divorce reform act saw more women divorcing to get out of domestic abuse etc.

Question 10

True or false, Liberal feminists believe jobs should be based on gender and not talent.

Answer 10

False, It should be based on talent rather than gender