6 of 8

Write now Article Tools

The term "feminism" is really a catch-all phrase that encompasses several movements and themes. The feminist movement began in the 19th and early 20th centuries with the goal being to extend the right to vote to women. Then in the 1960's a new "wave" of feminism emerged sparked by the publication of the book "The Feminine Mystique," by Betty Friedman. This time the ultimate goal was "careerism." The agenda broadly dealt with inequality and discrimination towards women and included equal pay for equal jobs, as well as fair and unprejudiced admission to colleges. As the movement progressed, women began to shed and even disdain their traditional domestic roles in favor of the male dominated educational, political, and corporate environments. To their credit, the women of this movement achieved a high level of success. Today, woman have higher salaries, more cooperate power, and more career choices. In response to today's working woman, the number of stay at home dads is also on the rise.
At present, the term feminism is broader then ever, encompassing issues such as ethnicity, sexual orientation, social class, and reproductive rights. However, in my opinion there is something that is tragically missing from the agenda- and that is the recognition and even glorification of the attributes and abilities that are uniquely a woman's. Although a woman should have the option to pursue any career or higher level of education, there is no reason put down the traditional role as a mother and homemaker. Being able to raise children and run a home (even if there are some men out there who are particularly talented in this area) is uniquely a woman's domain. Here she rules and flourishes; this is her most natural element. It is sad to see that the definition of feminism, though it holds many important causes, has left out the most important cause of all.

Learn more about this author, Simi Brown.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Understanding what feminism means?
We want to hear your view. Write now!