3Q_SS10_Lesson 3 Factors Affecting Gender Role and Treatment in Society

Chapter V: Gender Issues

Objectives

• Analyze the different gender discrimination in society.

• Assess the roles different genders play in various sectors and institutions of society.

• Compare and contrast the status of women, lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender people in various countries and regions around the world.

• Analyze and evaluate the factors affecting gender roles and treatment in society through the lens of a Biblical worldview.

Gender and Sexuality

Definitions

• Gender: Classification of people into male and female as determined by their reproductive system.

• Sexuality: Culture and social constructs defining the roles and relationships of women and men.

• Biological sex: The physiological characteristics such as reproductive organs, chromosomes, hormones that differentiate males and females.

• Gender is a social construct; it varies across societies and can change over time.

The Roles of Men and Women

Biblical Perspective

• Genesis 1:27 emphasizes that both male and female are created in God's image as part of His design.

• The evolution of gender roles has been influenced by the sexual revolution and feminism, challenging traditional perspectives.

Modern Changes

• Late modernity saw significant changes in Western society, shifting views on gender and family.

• The introduction of birth control and abortion technologies transformed gender thinking.

Theological Responses

• Two major theological responses: Egalitarianism and Complementarianism.

  • Egalitarianism: Men and women are equal in all leadership roles; hierarchy is not a biblical requirement.

  • Complementarianism: Men and women are equal but with distinct roles; supports male leadership in church and home.

Gender Constructs

• Gender is not inherently tied to biological sex; it includes societal and cultural dimensions.

• Gender roles can be inferred from society's treatment of the genders, primarily shaped by cultural and traditional factors.

Historical Context of Gender Roles

Physical Strength

• Gender roles were influenced by physical strength; typically, men were associated with labor-intensive roles.

• Modern professions still reflect gender biases, with certain jobs considered exclusive to men or women.

Culture and Traditions

• Societal and cultural norms dictate the expectations for men and women (e.g., men work, women stay home).

• Historical examples include Roman views of women being too emotional for political roles and the restrictive practices of arranged marriage.

• Livy's critique underscores historical beliefs regarding women's capabilities in public and political affairs.

Current Gender Dynamics

• Women increasingly participate in public and political spheres, challenging traditional gender norms.

• Fear of women exceeding their 'boundaries' reflects past concerns over women's freedom and behavior.

Regional Cultural Practices

• In cultures like China, Korea, and Japan, arranged marriages influence gender roles, emphasizing family reputation and duties.

• Foot binding illustrated societal pressures on women in historical China, serving as a status symbol.

Gender in Religion

Common Representations

• Female deities often symbolize beauty, fertility, and family, while male deities are associated with strength and war.

• Male dominance in religious contexts perpetuates patriarchal structures in society.

• However, some religious communities have allowed for more diverse and inclusive roles for women, such as nuns and women pastors.

Historical and Current Perspectives

• Muslim women in diverse contexts, including in the 1500s, had varying degrees of freedom.

• Contrasting practices such as Sati in ancient Indian society highlight severe restrictions on women’s autonomy.

Education and Employment

Historical Barriers

• Women were historically restricted from accessing education and formal employment.

• Mary Wollstonecraft's advocacy for women's education highlighted systemic issues.

Modern Developments

• The late 1700s industrialization allowed women more employment opportunities, although often in lower status jobs.

• Significant educational advancements for women occurred with institutions like Oxford and Cambridge opening to female enrollment.