Discuss the criticisms of feminist theories of power and politics.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answers will vary.Feminist theorists maintain that women are generally shut out of the most important political positions because, in a patriarchal society, men rule. Critics fault feminist explanations for several reasons. First, there are powerful women on some of the most influential congressional committees. Also, women have attained top leadership posts in more than 70 countries. Second, a large number of female officeholders don't guarantee greater gender equality. One might also question whether patriarchy is the root of political power differences between women and men. Some of the world's most patriarchal societies have more women in high-ranking political positions than does the United States, which professes gender equality. Women have the fewest rights in societies where male political leaders are religious zealots who don't believe in gender equality. Thus, religion may be more important than patriarchy in quashing women's political leadership.