Академический Документы
Профессиональный Документы
Культура Документы
Meaning of Feminism
In 19th century (1871) French word “Feminisme”
The term was used by a French writer, Alexandre Dumas fils in a pamphlet published in 1872
As a medical term, it means to describe feminization of male patients (when development of sexual
organs/ characteristics stop in their bodies) for example, the presence of female characteristics in men
Feminism is thus a term through which women question their inferior status
and demand formal equality in their social position. Women are against the
subjugation (discrimination) based on a person’s sex/gender.
The terms "feminism" or "feminist" first appeared in France and The Netherlands in 1872 (as les
féministes), Great Britain in the 1890s, and the United States in 1910.
The term “Feminism” refers to a variety of beliefs, ideas and organized actions which promote
changes in behavior of members of society to end gender discrimination.
(Feminists believe that women are at disadvantage as they are treated
differently because of culture and culture can be changed by changing behavior of men)
The term gender implies differences between men and women based on social factors (like social role,
position, behavior or identity)
Thus Feminists believe that inequality/ gender discrimination is caused by behavioural and
psychological differences which are culturally learned by men (these can be changed). For example, in
1970s, sex (biological) differences were used (false notion that men are stronger than women) to argue
that women should not become airline pilots since they will be hormonally unstable once a month and
therefore unable to perform their duties eagerly.
Feminism is all about fighting against toxic (negative) mindset. Its not ‘us’ versus ‘them’ situation rather
its ‘us’ versus ‘our lack of mutual understanding’ to get rid of hate.
Basically this ideology was put forward in the mid 19th century, which demanded political, social,
economic and personal equality among the sexes. It aimed to achieve certain goals i.e.
Right to vote
To receive education
To earn equal pays
To hold political positions
To work
To have equal rights within marriage
To have maternity leave
To own property
Protection from sexual harassment and domestic violence
5) Negated Biblical representation
Views on women in the Bible are patriarchal (ruled or controlled by men). Arguments about women’s
inferiority to men are present across all dominant religions, and traditionally religion has long been used
to exclude women from aspects of social, political, or religious life around the world.
Thus Feminism negate this inferior position of women as represented in Bible. Feminists considered
Bible as ‘a tool of oppression against women”.
7) Power differential
In our society, when one person has more authority, control, power or knowledge than the other, it
is known as power differential.
The power differential between men and women is often displayed in:
Types of Feminism