Feminist Theory of Religion

Feminist Theory of Religion

1. Religion is patriarchal and legitimates female oppression

2. Evidence of Patriarchy

   • Religious Organisations
     • Male dominated despite mostly female participation. Armstrong (1993) sees women as forbidden to become priests is a clear example of marginalisation.
   • Places of Worship
     • Participation within or access to certain areas is restricted for women. E.g. menstruating women cannot touch the Qur'an
   • Sacred Texts
     • Feature mostly male gods and figureheads.
     • Written/interpreted by men
     • Present anti-female stereotypes. E.g. Eve as reason for Eden expulsion.
   • Religious Laws and Customs
     • Women have fewer rights. E.g. spouse numbers, divorce, dress codes
     • Unequal treatment such as genital mutilation
     • Catholic church bans abortion and contraception

3. Saadawi (1980): Religion is not the direct cause of female oppression. Patriarchy has influenced and reshaped religions as a result of monotheism.

4. Evaluation

   • Religious Feminism: Woodhead (1980)
     • Patriarchy isn't true for all religions
     • Hijab (Islam): Symbol of liberation, culture and identity to Muslim women
     • Evangelicals believe men should show respect to women
     • CofE has allowed female priests since 1992.
   • Marxists believe feminists ignore the role of religion in propping up capitalism
   • PostMod: traditional Feminism is outdated