Gender inequality- Liberal Feminists

Question 1

What is the liberal feminist we discuss?

Answer 1

Oakley

Question 2

Define manipulation.

Answer 2

The encouragement of behaviour deemed as gender appropriate. e.g. men playing football/ getting dirty and women wearing makeup

Question 3

Define canalisation

Answer 3

‘Channelling of children’ through toys and activities which reinforce gender stereoypes. e.g toy kitchen, puzzles

Question 4

Where do children learn their gender identity?

Answer 4

Behaviour experienced in the family. (parents’ role in the home) This is reinforced through the education system and the media.

Question 5

What do liberal feminists believe overall?

Answer 5

• Men are not oppressors.
• Focus on gaining equal rights and challenging socialisation.

Question 6

How are liberal feminists critiqued?

Answer 6

• Radical and Marxists say they fail to explain why men and women hold different levels of power in the family and wider society.
• Overoptimistic; still need more done.
• Ethnocentric, middle class movement.
• Postmodernists say there are a range of gender identities to choose from now.