Feminist Theory
- To understand the different feminist theories
- To apply feminist theory to media text
What is your understanding of the term 'feminism?
A person who stands up for the rights of women, believes in independence.
How would you describe a 'feminist'?
Independent
Feminism- The theories which consolidate concepts of female independence and celebrate women hood and shun oppression.
Radical Feminism:
All things are blamed on men, women's oppression comes from women being categorised as an inferior class to the class of men on the basis of gender. The aim of being a radical feminist is to destroy this sex-class system. Radical feminists focus on the roots of male domination and claims that all forms of oppression are extensions of male supremacy.
Example; Lisa Simpson
Marxist Feminism:
The Marxist theory ties capitalism into feminism, by saying because of the capitalist society we live in gives rise to economic inequality, dependence, political confusion and ultimately unhealthy social relations between men and women is the root of women's oppression.
Example; Margaret Thatcher
Dual-Systems Theory:
The dual systems theory argues there are 2 systems of oppression: capitalism and patriarchy. The main axis of exploitation in capitalism is class, and the main axis of oppression in patriarchy is sex/gender.
Example; Rihanna
Post-Modern Feminism:
Differences are to be celebrated. Females are to see their gender as an advantage and to use this to their advantage.
Example; Hillary Swank, Madonna
