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The Controversy Surrounding The Definition Of Feminism

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According to chapter one of Feminism and Feminist Theory, the definition of feminism is a politicized ideology and the human gender system is a social cultural construct. The chapter defines feminism in a complex notion, providing different types of feminism and describing the interpretation of the term. I have always associated the definition of feminism with the equality of both genders, but I’m starting to realize that the definition has an underlying meaning that goes beyond the literal definition. It is a movement of female advocacy in order to reach equality. A feminist not only believes in this definition, but participates in the fight for equality and/or supports the notion of feminism regardless of their gender. The connotation of …show more content…

Hegemonic feminism refers to the assumptions by the western world of how women need to be liberated and what it means to be a feminist. The problems with this is that it suggests complete dominance, similar to a hegemonic government. With complete power, the equality aspect in the definition of feminism is taken away. However, women aim to be more liberated and empowered—but not in a way where they are overpowered over men, but equally. Today, women are more liberated and empowered than ever before. Most women are now not afraid to use their voices to fight for equality (example women’s march), gender barriers in the job force and other aspects are slowly coming down, and are receiving more equal rights within laws. Yet, there is not complete equality because the patriarchy still exists, despite the changes in the past. The position of treatment of women in society has improved tremendously. Women are allowed to vote, divorce, own land, become a business owner, etc., but there are still bias and negative treatment towards women from society. Women are still expected to do certain things to prevent sexual assault, take on household roles, and fall into the expectations of their gender. As a woman, I have realized that we must prove to society that we can take on bigger roles that are usually meant for a man. Society is more willing to give a leadership position to a man because of their physical demeanor, but because I’m a woman with a tiny frame and soft-spoken voice, I’ve had to work and prove myself that I can hold this leadership position than my male opponent. There is still a lot of work that needs to be done today to reach complete equality between genders. In my opinion and experiences, gender equality is nowhere near being close than what it should be, but after the past election, it seems that more people are coming together to fight for gender equality out of fear—we are currently living in a women’s

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