Intro to Feminism Unit 1 Feminism Feminist Theory

Intro to Feminism { Unit 1: Feminism & Feminist Theory

…. Define Feminism

Basic Assumption: “Throughout history, women have struggled to gain equality, respect, and the same rights as men. This has been difficult because of patriarchy, an ideology in which men are superior to women and have the right to rule women. ” Definition of Feminism: Feminism is a movement that includes women and men who wish to see a world where discrimination based on gender and the idea that men are superior to women is abolished. (Tess Lantos) Major Goals of Feminist Movement Across Time

Women are oppressed by patriarchy economically, politically, socially, and psychologically. Women are marginalized, ridiculed, disempowered, abused, exploited, disrespected, and objectified by the patriarchal society. All western civilization (including American) is deeply rooted in patriarchy. Gender issues play a part in every aspect of the human experience. Feminist Theory Argues…

First Wave: late 1700 s – 1920 s Leading influencers: Mary Wollstonecraft (Vindication of the Rights of Women); Susan B. Anthony; Major ideas / goals: Suffrage; public participation in democracy; economic opportunity. 3 Historical Waves of Feminism

Second Wave: 1960 s-1990 s Leading influencers: Betty Friedan (The Feminist Mystique); Gloria Steinem (“Ms. ” Magazine) Major ideas / goals: Sexual & Reproductive Rights; Job harrassment protections for women; challenge of the domestic/traditional role for women; access to education; Equal Rights Amendment. 3 Historical Waves of Feminism

Third Wave: 1990 s- Now Leading influencers: Gloria Evangelina Anzaldua & the “new mestiza”; Lady Gaga Major ideas / Goals: Recognition of different racial experiences among women; embracing trans-gender / trans-sexuality; embrace of the feminie form; embrace of many kinds of sexuality; self-acceptance. 3 Historical Waves of Feminism