1. Marxist Feminism and the Family By Leanne, Catherine, Claire and Ruosi

2. What is Marxist Feminism? A form of feminism, based on the ideas of Marx. Combines the concept of patriarchy with the key concepts of Marxism. Believe that women’s oppression is a symptom of a more fundamental form of oppression. Women are not oppressed by men or by sexism, but by capitalism itself. The position of women in the family serves the interests of the economy and the ruling class.

3. Marxist Feminist’s definition of a family Marxist Feminists define the family as: An institution which allows for inequalities between the sexes and which will continue throughout the generations.

4. Role of the Family in Society Marxist Feminists suggest that the nuclear family meets the needs of capitalism for the reproduction and maintenance of class and patriarchal inequality. It benefits the powerful at the expense of the working class and women. To be an obstacle to women and to make sure there is male dominance in society.

5. Basic Theories The family is patriarchal. Domestic labour serves the needs of the capitalist economy. The family has an ideological role. The family is an obstacle to gender equality in employment.

6. Criticisms Women do play an important role in society as they provide a safety valve for the family. Nowadays there are laws to protect women in the workplace which means that it is impossible for women to be discriminated against. Men are now becoming more involved in family life such as child caring and house hold chores.