Sociology - LIBERAL FEMINISM KEY THINKERS

Set also includes a general introduction into feminism

Introduction - What type of view do feminists take over the family?

A critical view of the family

Introduction - How do feminists not regard gender inequality?

As natural or inevitable as argued by Parsons, but as something created by society

Introduction - What do the different types of feminism do?

Approach the family in a different way and offers different solutions to the problem of gender inequality 

Liberal Feminism - What are liberal feminists concerned with?

Campaigning against sex discrimination and for equal rights and opportunities for women

Somerville - What does Somerville argue?

That women’s position has improved considerably.

Somerville - How has women’s position improved?

Better access to divorce, jobs, control over fertility and the ability to choose whether to marry or cohabit 

Somerville - What does Somerville argue about women’s oppression?

It is gradually being overcome through changing peoples attitudes and through changes in the law. Such as the Sex Discrimination Act 1975. 

Somerville - What did the Sex Discrimination Act do?

Outlaw’s discrimination in employment 

Somerville - What legislation moved us closer to gender equality?

• Divorce Reform Act 1969 - Idea of less stigma around divorce, and freedom over relationships

• Equal Pay Act - Encourage women to pursue careers. Female friendly economy 

• Exclusion of Marital Rape Act - Sexual freedom 

• Domestic Violence Act 2004 - Helped address and prevent domestic violence 

Liberal Feminists - What do liberal feminists believe we are moving towards?

Greater equality 

Liberal Feminists - Although we may be moving towards greater equality, what does full equality depend on?

Further reforms and changes in the attitudes and socialisation patterns of both sexes 

Liberal Feminists - What do liberal feminists believe about gender equality?

That full gender equality hasn’t been achieved yet in the family, however there has been gradual progress

Liberal Feminists - Gatrell - What evidence is there to suggest progress of gender equality in the family?

Some studies suggest men are doing more domestic labour than in the past. Gatrell found in dual earner families, that fathers played a greater role in their children’s lives than their own fathers 

Liberal Feminists Evaluation - Why would Functionalist Parsons criticise liberal feminists?

Parsons states both genders have biological roles suited for them. This leads to different tasks in the home. For example, women are biologically able to bear children and men are biologically able to engage in more physical labour. This shows, naturally, there are gender differences in the home in relation to biological differences 

Liberal Feminists Evaluation - What would the New Right argue about equality?

It’s not always a good thing as most women are now working full time and children are suffering as they are being neglected. Women themselves are suffering as they are doing too much, and would have an easier life as a housewife