Theories of inequality: feminist

The Feminist Perspective on Inequality

Key Principles of Feminism

Feminist theory proposes that social inequality is rooted in gender relations and patriarchal systems that favour men.
Feminists assert that women have been historically and socially disadvantaged, resulting in unequal power dynamics between men and women.

Liberal Feminism

Liberal feminists believe in the ability of individuals to make changes through legal reforms and changing social attitudes.
They argue for equal rights and opportunities, and promote the introduction of policies to tackle gender discrimination, such as the provision of equal pay for work of equal value.

Radical Feminism

Radical feminists argue that it is the patriarchy, a system where men hold primary power, that is the root of gender inequality.
They believe that eradicating patriarchy requires revolutionary changes to existing social structures.

Marxist Feminism

Marxist feminists points out the role of capitalism in perpetuating gender inequality. They see women’s oppression as a by-product of the economic system.
They propose that this inequality can only be remedied through a radical transformation of the economic system.

Intersectional Feminism

Intersectional feminists highlight that women experience different levels of oppression based on various aspects of their identities, including race, class, and sexuality.
This theory suggests understanding women’s experience through the interlocking systems of oppression rather than considering gender as a standalone category.

Criticisms of Feminist Theories

Critics argue that feminist theories often overemphasise the extent of male privilege and power, and may unnecessarily paint all men as oppressors.
Some also argue that feminist theories may ignore the experiences of men who also suffer from societal expectations of masculinity.
Intersectionality has been criticised for leading to a fragmentation of feminism due to the emphasis on differences among women more than their shared experiences under patriarchy.