POL 501 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Mary Wollstonecraft, Liberal Feminism, Feminist Theory

• School: Ryerson University
• Department: Politics and Public Administration
• Course: POL 501
• Professor: Karen Ruddy

Document Summary

Varieties of feminist theorizing, liberal/radical/social feminisms, subject of feminism/ post modern feminism/ 3rd wave. Is there a theory or a framework or practice. Each feminist theory attempts to describe gender oppression, explain its causes and consequences [who does it affect and in what ways]. Everyone is equal/ should govern collectively & electing people should represent the interests of the people. We all have equal capacity to be rational and be intellectual. Society should on meritocracy, based on the persons capacity to achieve. Mary wollstonecraft (1759-1798 18th century) [a vindication of the rights of woman] Challenge to biological essentialism/determinism [women are not biologically weak, and the society forces women to please men] 2nd wave contemporary liberal feminism goal: move women from the private to the public sphere causes of gender inequality: Gender discrimination an issue of bias strategies for change. Remove traditional & legal barriers to womens full participation in public sphere.