Feminism basics

Feminism basics

1. Liberal Feminists

   • The so called differences between men and women are not biological but the result of gender role socialisation
     • The different ways boys and girls are treated
   • To liberate women it is necessary to show that men and women are equal in potential
   • Their concern is fighting for equal rights

2. Radical Feminist

   • Hold the most extreme view and believe that men are the enemy
   • Men dominate and opress women in society in a niumber of ways
   • Believe women are exploited for the benefit of men
   • In order to be freed women need to separate themselves completely from male domination and control

3. Marxist Feminist

   • Capitalism and Patriarchy
   • Women are exploited through capitalism
     • As they are paid less than men for their labour
   • They are also exploited in the home
     • They carry out unpaid housework and childcare

4. Black Feminism

   • White feminists have ignored ethnic minority women
     • These women face a double disadvantage
       • Racism and Patriarchy
   • Concerned with issuses which affect women from ethnic backgrounds
     • Eg- forced marriage

5. Post Feminist

   • Suggest there are now a range of identities from which women and men can choose from
   • Acknowledges that experience of women varies according to their class, ethnicity and age