INTRODUCTION:

Like so many words in the English language, the word feminism has evolved over time. In its early development, the word had a very unpleasant connotation, almost taboo. Even women who considered themselves to be feminists would scarcely proclaim it publicly, much like the word lesbian today. The words feminist and feminism once had very undesirable connotations, largely because they were coined by sexist males. It used to be just as offensive to call a female a feminist, as it was to call a male a liberal. Men often use the words feminist and feminism when they wanted to denigrate the opposite sex. Just as the word liberal is now acceptable or even desirable for some men, so too is the word feminism for some women.

DEFINITIONS:

According to the Oxford Dictionary, the word feminism is defined as

1. The advocacy of women's rights on the ground of the equality of the sexes;

2. Medicine, the development of female characteristics in a male person.

Merriam-Webster has a similar definition, which is

1. The theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes;

2. Organized activity on behalf of women's rights and interests.

Finally, American Heritage has the definition as a

1. Belief in the social, political and economic equality of the sexes;

2. The movement organized around this belief.

ANALYSIS:

The underlying theme of the word feminism; is, an attempt by some women to bring an end to the stereotyping of persons based on gender. The word feminism is used describes the zeal of those who firmly believe in the need for change, and the willingness to play their part in affecting that change. Feminism is more than just a characteristic, a state of mind, or a conviction; it involves action, or participation of some form.

There is a belief that things considered masculine have a greater value in today's society. There is no biological evidence to validate this patriarchal society in which we live.

HISTORY:

There is much debate as to when the feminist movement first started. Two things are certain, one is that the movement has existed for sometime; the second is it will continue to rage on as long as the matrix of domination for women continues. The suffrage movement may be over for some; but for others being given the right to vote, was merely a token gesture.

FINAL ANALYSIS:

Studies have shown that children as young as two years old recognize that there is a gender distinction. Often adults will blame the media, peers, or some the secondary socialization for the misdeeds their children get involved in. However, it cannot be denied that primary socialization plays a big part in shaping the believes of a toddler who thinks his gender is more important than the other.

Feminism is much more than an individual female's opinion about herself. It is much farther reaching, that spans decades, boarders, races and generations. It is not just one or two women expressing their opinions, but many groups of women from many walks of life, and of many ages with multiple causes. It is a movement, one that is very much alive and growing.

Learn more about this author, M. R. Hill.
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