Wollstonecraft - sociological theory

Question 1

What were Rousseau’s four main arguments?

Answer 1

• inequalities were artificial but inequalities between genders were natural
• women’s education must be planned in relation to men
• women are naturally predisposed to care for people
• women are weak and submissive

Question 2

Why did Wollstonecraft criticise Rousseau’s view on inequalities being artificial/natural

Answer 2

logical flaw - how can inequalities be artificial and natural

Question 3

key points from A Vindication of the Rights of Women:

Answer 3

• discussed gender expectations (women not expected to exert manual strength but were expected to be docile)
• suggested a reform was needed

Question 4

Criticisms of Wollstonecraft (5)

Answer 4

• victim blaming
• focused on middle class
• denial of sexual pleasure
• don’t offer suggestions for how women should change and reform - empty argument
• has contradictory views on omens participation: tension between being a mother and being equal with men within the public sphere

Question 5

What did Wollstonecraft compare women to?

Answer 5

birds