Analysis of Gender Inequality with a Focus on Feminist...

Analysis of Gender Inequality with a Focus on Feminist Ideas The goal of this paper is to describe and analyze gender inequality, focusing on the history of feminist ideas. I will start with a basic overview of the entire feminist movement, and will then analyze feminism more specifically. In this analysis I will focus on the different types of feminism. Most notably of these types will be the main groups that consist of socialist feminists, liberal feminists, and radical feminists. I will describe the goals and ideals of these groups along with describing how a functionalist and conflict theorist looks at gender. Feminism has been defined as the advocacy of social equality for men and women, in opposition to patriarchy and sexism.†¦show more content†¦They argue that the family structure created by capitalism must change. They want to replace what they call their domestic slavery with a collective means of carrying out housework and child care. They feel that the only way that this goal can be realized is through a socialist revolut ion, which creates a state-centered economy which meets the needs of all. This basic transformation requires women and men to pursue their liberation together. Liberal Feminism is based on the traditionally liberal feeling that individuals should be free to develop their own talents and pursue their own interests. They accept the basic organizations of our society but seek to expand the rights and opportunities of women. They also advocate reproductive freedom for all women. They respect the family as a social institution, but seek changes including widely available maternity leave, and child-care for women who want to work. With their strong belief in the rights of individuals, liberal feminists do not think that all women need to move collectively towards any one political goal. Both women and men, through their individual achievement, are capable of improving their lives if society simply ends legal and cultural barriers rooted in gender. Radical Feminism finds that reforms of li beral feminists are inadequate, they also feel that a social revolution would not end patriarchy. Instead, they feel that genderShow MoreRelatedEssay on Feminism and Modern Feminist Theory1068 Words   |  5 Pagesand motivated by the experiences of women. While generally providing a critique of social relations, many proponents of feminism also focus on analyzing gender inequality and the promotion of womens rights, interests, and issues. Feminist theory aims to understand the nature of gender inequality and focuses on gender politics, power relations and sexuality. 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