Feminist Political Theory - How women can thrive in male-dominated societies

Defining Feminist Political Theory:

Feminist political theory is unique in the fact that it utilizes feminism to challenge patriarchy, and challenge systems that justify female repression. It helps governments include women in political discourse, and fights against gender bias. Feminist political theory is used by women to broaden the scope of political engagement, and amplify female voices to challenge the status quo in politics. It was popularized during the 20th century feminist movements such as: reproductive rights advocacy, first-wave feminism, and the establishment of the Women’s Bureau - all known for combating political, and legal bigotry against women. Notable activist and author Betty Friedan wrote The Feminine Mystique, which raised awareness for female oppression, and created a new lens that redefined women’s roles. Betty Friedan was able to shift perspectives on The Cult of Domesticity ideology, and help support women to pursue a career. Feminist Political Theory is important in modern times because it integrates gender-inclusive policy frameworks, and counter the traditional male-dominant perspective in governance.

Impact of gender on politics:

 Political representation is essential for women because it challenges the notion that women should be held solely to the domestic sphere or women aren’t as competent as men in policymaking. Unfortunately, gender does shape policy focus, but with diverse perspectives brought into civil conversations, concerns such as: education, healthcare, gender equality, and many more are more likely to be given precedence.  Professor Kerry L. Haynie at Duke University delved into the role of race and gender in government. Professor Haynie states: “And what we found in those early studies is that both race and gender make a difference. Black legislators are more likely than others to introduce Black-interest legislation, and women legislators are more likely than their male counterparts to introduce women’s-interest legislation.” Professor Haynie emphasizes when women take on leadership, and government roles they are able to create more opportunities for themselves. Representation is extremely important for women and minorities because it has the ability to increase voter turnout, and get their voice heard. Overall, when gender roles are balanced and minorities are represented, structural barriers and stereotypes are able to be broken down - empowering a new generation of female politicians and activists. 

How political thought is developed:

 Political ideology and opinions are shaped through many factors. Most are shaped by history or cultural shifts. It is important to note that political development is complex,  and relies heavily on what past leaders have accomplished. For instance, Alaa Murabit is a women’s right advocate that leads with feminist principles, helping to shape a culture of politics that validates all citizens. Another example would be Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech. His speech was able to change public opinion by connecting freedom for African Americans to core American values such as justice and equality through biblical references, illustrative language, and true passion. Overall, it is important to understand that political ideology is shaped through people’s lived experiences and gained perspective, which impacts the types of policies and thoughts that they possess. Feminist Political Theory has the power to transform political thought by focusing on inclusion, and solving inequity. 

How Feminist Political Theory can transform political discourse & help solve inequality:

  Feminist Political Theory is a useful tool to challenge conventional or patriarchal norms that tend to disempower women, and minorities from leadership roles. Feminist political theory works to reveal historically rooted bias in our political system by opposing the public, and private divide (men work in the office, while females take care of family and domestic needs) in politics. It is able to put emphasis on the fact that conventional norms of governance are highly gendered. The persistent stereotype that women are less competent in political fields neglects the full picture of what women are truly capable of. Men are more “assertive” or "decisive" is just a misconception that has shaped public opinion. Feminist Political Theory is able to expand political discourse into lived realities, and bring attention to the opportunities most females are deprived of. It is essential to ensure that our government is not centered solely around male experience, and by being an advocate for feminist theory you can draw attention to issues such as reproductive rights, gender-based violence, and domestic labor - all issues overlooked by politicians and mainstream media.Overall, by dismantling the male oriented power structure, Feminist Political Theory is able to expose gender bias, and advocate for a more inclusive and fair-minded political culture. 

Conclusion:

  Feminist Political Theory values the lived experiences of citizens who have faced discrimination and works to ensure women’s potential isn’t stifled. It helps prevent our government running in an outdated system as well. By becoming an advocate for representation and challenging patriarchal norms, you can empower women. It is essential to amplify female voices to ensure they’re heard by those in power. Together, we can build a confident political culture that is both progressive and resilient - a society where no citizen is held back due to their gender.

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Works Cited:

Advancement, Office for Faculty. “How Race and Gender Are Shaping Politics | Office for Faculty Advancement.” Facultyadvancement.duke.edu, 4 May 2021, facultyadvancement.duke.edu/news/how-race-and-gender-are-shaping-politics/.

“Gender & Politics.” Www.hks.harvard.edu, www.hks.harvard.edu/centers/wappp/research/gender-politics#gender-quotas.

Kang, Miliann, et al. “Early to Late 20th Century Feminist Movements.” Umass.edu, University of Massachusetts Amherst Libraries, 30 June 2017, openbooks.library.umass.edu/introwgss/chapter/early-to-late-20th-century-feminist-movements/.

Women, U. N. “Women Leaders We Admire.” Medium, 22 Mar. 2021, un-women.medium.com/women-leaders-we-admire-46ee179ec4ca.