Liberal feminists are optimistic about achieving gender equality and believe society is progressing toward egalitarianism. They do not hold men responsible for inequality but acknowledge its persistence. They identify two primary barriers to gender equality:
Social Policy
Liberal feminists recognize progress through legislation but argue that some laws still discriminate against women. For instance, expectations around maternity leave can hinder women’s career advancement, creating barriers to equality.
Marxist feminists emphasize the additional exploitation women face in capitalist systems compared to men.
Women and Capitalism
Exploitation
Marxist feminists highlight how women’s unpaid domestic labor within the family unit benefits capitalism by supporting the system without compensation.
Status
Radical feminists view men as the primary oppressors of women and patriarchy as the central form of social inequality.
Patriarchy
Patriarchy, originally meaning "rule by fathers," refers to a male-dominated society. Radical feminists argue that all societies are patriarchal, with men systematically oppressing women through "sexual politics."
Female Oppression
They assert that men are the main adversaries of women, and patriarchy is the root of social inequality, perpetuating female oppression across all societies.
Sexuality
133 docs|13 tests
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1. What are the main principles of Liberal Feminism? | ![]() |
2. How does Marxist Feminism explain the oppression of women? | ![]() |
3. What are the key beliefs of Radical Feminism? | ![]() |
4. What distinguishes Liberal Feminism from Radical Feminism? | ![]() |
5. How have these feminist movements evolved over time? | ![]() |