1. Feminist Perspective Feminism first emerged as a critique of traditional sociological theory, saying that sociology didn’t acknowledge the experiences of women Feminist scholars argued that sociology studied men – not human beings – so it really only analyzed the “male social universe” If women were studied, it was through men’s eyes In this way, they argued furthermore that sociology contributed to the subordination and exploitation of women

2. Feminist Perspective The feminist perspective focuses on the significance of gender in understanding and explaining inequalities that exists between men and women in the household, in the paid labour force and in the realms of politics, law and culture Feminist sociology attempts to bring to light women’s personal problems For example:violence against women poverty of women invisibility of women’s role in reproduction

3. Feminist Perspective According to feminists, we live in a patriarchy Patriarchy – a hierarchical system of power in which men possess greater economic and social privilege than women Also, it asserts that society values masculinity more highly than femininity Feminist perspectives assume that gender is socially created and reinforced through learning

4. Feminist Perspective Applying a Feminist Perspective to Suicide p. 26-27 Read p. 26-27 “Applying a Feminist Perspective to Suicide, and answer the following questions: North American statistics show that women are more likely to attempt suicide, while men are more likely to actually take their own lives. Why do you think this is? Among young men and women who are poor, women are more likely to attempt suicide than men. Why do you think this is? Aside from the stresses of inter-personal relationships, what broader social stresses do you think pressure women to the point where they might consider suicide?

5. Coming Soon… Perspectives Quiz Wed Feb 28 th Unit Test (Ch. 1 & 2) Wed Mar 7 th

6. Feminist Perspective Short Essay Feminism has essentially emerged as a response to the historical and persistent nature of the subordination and exploitation of women by men. It seeks to give women an equal place in society, particularly in areas such as employment and education opportunities, and status. Write a 500-word essay answering the following questions: What is your impression of the feminist movement? Has it been successful in achieving its goals? Has it produced positive results? Has it produced negative results? Can men be feminists? Do you think feminism will always be necessary? Due Monday, February 26th