Second-wave feminism

Definition

Second-wave feminism is a feminist movement that emerged in the 1960s and continued into the 1980s, focusing on a broad range of issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, workplace discrimination, and social justice. It sought to address the inequalities faced by women in society, challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for women's rights across various aspects of life. This wave of feminism reinterpreted cultural narratives and myths surrounding women, leading to feminist reinterpretations and criticisms of existing myths.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second-wave feminism built upon the foundations laid by first-wave feminism, which primarily focused on suffrage and legal inequalities.
2. Key figures of second-wave feminism include Betty Friedan, whose book 'The Feminine Mystique' sparked widespread discussion about women's roles in society.
3. This movement led to significant legal changes, including the establishment of laws that prohibited sex discrimination in employment and education.
4. Second-wave feminists often critiqued myths about women's nature and roles that had been perpetuated by culture, literature, and media.
5. The movement also emphasized solidarity among women from diverse backgrounds and experiences, highlighting issues related to race, class, and sexuality.

Review Questions

• How did second-wave feminism expand upon the achievements of first-wave feminism?
  • Second-wave feminism expanded upon first-wave feminism by shifting the focus from primarily legal issues like suffrage to a broader range of social, economic, and cultural inequalities. While first-wave feminists fought for women's right to vote and legal status, second-wave feminists tackled issues such as reproductive rights, workplace discrimination, and the cultural expectations placed on women. This wave aimed to challenge traditional gender roles and address systemic inequalities that affected women in various aspects of life.
• In what ways did second-wave feminists reinterpret cultural myths about women during their movement?
  • Second-wave feminists actively challenged and reinterpreted cultural myths that portrayed women as primarily homemakers or caregivers. They sought to debunk stereotypes that limited women's potential and advocated for a more nuanced understanding of women's identities beyond traditional roles. Through literature, art, and activism, second-wave feminists highlighted women's diverse experiences and contributions to society while critiquing narratives that reinforced gender inequality.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of second-wave feminism on contemporary discussions about gender equality and social justice.
  • The long-term impact of second-wave feminism is evident in today's ongoing discussions about gender equality and social justice. This movement laid the groundwork for later feminist waves by addressing complex issues such as intersectionality and reproductive rights. The legal advancements made during this period have facilitated greater participation of women in various fields and contributed to societal shifts regarding gender norms. Moreover, contemporary feminism continues to build on the insights of second-wave feminists, advocating for an inclusive approach that recognizes the varied experiences of all women.

Related terms

Patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power, dominating roles in leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.

Reproductive Rights: Legal rights and freedoms relating to reproduction and reproductive health, including access to contraception and abortion.

Intersectionality: A framework for understanding how various forms of inequality or discrimination overlap and intersect, affecting individuals differently based on their race, gender, class, and other identities.