Feminism: Key Concepts and Disagreements

This set of flashcards covers significant themes, disagreements, and viewpoints within feminism based on the provided lecture notes.

What do liberal feminists believe about the nature of men and women?

Liberal feminists argue that men and women are equal in nature, and gender roles are a product of socialization, not biology.

How do radical feminists view patriarchy?

Radical feminists believe men and women are fundamentally different, with men biologically inclined to dominate, making patriarchy universal and deep-rooted.

What is the stance of socialist feminists regarding gender inequality?

Socialist feminists argue that gender inequality is produced by class structures, not nature, and is shaped by material roles under capitalism.

What do postmodern feminists reject in terms of identity?

Postmodern feminists reject the idea of a fixed male/female binary altogether, arguing that gender is fluid and constructed through various social factors.

Can men be feminist allies according to liberal feminists?

Yes, liberal feminists argue that men can support feminism as all individuals are capable of rational progress and moral development.

What is the radical feminist viewpoint on male feminist allies?

Radical feminists are skeptical and believe that men, as beneficiaries of patriarchy, may not be capable of relinquishing power voluntarily.

How do socialist feminists view the role of the state?

Socialist feminists see the state as a tool that can be used to improve women's lives, especially through redistributive policies and welfare.

What criticism do postmodern feminists have regarding the state?

Postmodern feminists criticize the state for privileging certain identities and marginalizing others, rejecting the use of a singular institution to represent all women.

What is the common view among feminists about human nature?

Feminists broadly agree that human nature is shaped by social and cultural forces like patriarchy.

What disagreement exists regarding distinct female nature?

Radical feminists argue women have a unique nature rooted in biology, while liberal feminists reject this, emphasizing universal human rationality.

How do feminists view the public and private spheres in relation to patriarchy?

Feminists agree that both spheres are sites of patriarchal control but disagree on the necessary degree of intervention required.

What do liberal feminists advocate for in terms of gender roles?

Liberal feminists advocate for reforming gender roles by removing barriers to choice and promoting individual freedoms.

In what way do radical feminists propose to handle gender roles?

Radical feminists want to abolish gender altogether as they see it as a patriarchal tool of oppression.

How do socialist feminists envision economic change?

Socialist feminists argue that economic change must occur through a class-based revolution that overthrows capitalism.

What is postmodern feminism's stance on identity?

Postmodern feminists embrace fluid and intersecting identities, rejecting any singular category for womanhood.

Is there disagreement about the concept of feminist goals related to economic systems?

Yes, feminists disagree on whether to reform capitalism or demand its complete restructuring for true equality.

What is a common belief among all feminists regarding patriarchy?

All feminists oppose patriarchy and seek to dismantle systems that perpetuate gender oppression.

How do radical and socialist feminists view equality?

Both radical and socialist feminists agree on the need for substantial, structural equality, critiquing capitalism and patriarchy.

What has bell hooks contributed to discussions on intersectionality?

bell hooks criticizes mainstream feminism for ignoring the experiences of women of color and emphasizes the need for an intersectional analysis.

Which feminist strand focuses on individual identity in activism?

Postmodern feminists promote decentralized forms of activism based on individual identity and lived experiences.