Learning Objectives
5 objectives- Understand the origins, evolution, and key concepts of feminist theories.
- Analyze the role of intersectionality in shaping feminist perspectives on privilege and oppression.
- Examine the contributions of major feminist thinkers and their theoretical frameworks.
- Critically evaluate feminist critiques of patriarchy, Western philosophy, and their implications for social justice.
- Explore specialized feminist perspectives including ecofeminism, reproductive rights, and global feminisms.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 2666: Feminist Theories and Perspectives
1. Introduction to Feminist Theories
- Origins and historical context of feminism
- Evolution through different waves:
- First Wave: Suffrage and legal rights
- Second Wave: Equality, workplace, family, sexuality
- Third Wave: Diversity, identity, and postmodern critiques
- Fourth Wave: Digital activism, intersectionality
- Key concepts:
- Gender vs. sex
- Patriarchy
- Gender roles and socialization
- Feminist epistemology and methodology
2. Intersectionality in Feminist Theories
- Definition and origins of intersectionality (Kimberlé Crenshaw)
- Intersecting social categories:
- Race
- Class
- Gender identity
- Sexuality
- Disability
- Impact on experiences of privilege and oppression
- Case studies illustrating intersectional analysis
3. Key Figures in Feminist Thought
- Simone de Beauvoir:
- "The Second Sex"
- Existentialist feminism
- bell hooks:
- Intersectionality and cultural criticism
- Concepts of love and community
- Judith Butler:
- Gender performativity
- Queer theory
- Kimberlé Crenshaw:
- Intersectionality and critical race feminism
- Additional contributors:
- Angela Davis
- Audre Lorde
- Chandra Talpade Mohanty
4. Feminist Perspectives on Patriarchy
- Definition and structure of patriarchy
- Power dynamics and gender roles
- Institutional and cultural reinforcement of patriarchy
- Feminist critiques and strategies for dismantling patriarchy
- Role of masculinity and feminist masculinity studies
5. Feminist Critiques of Western Philosophy
- Overview of dominant Western philosophical frameworks
- Feminist challenges to:
- Epistemology (knowledge production)
- Ethics and moral philosophy
- Metaphysics and identity
- Deconstruction of gender biases in philosophy
- Contributions from feminist philosophers
6. Ecofeminism and Environmental Justice
- Definition and origins of ecofeminism
- Connections between exploitation of women and nature
- Critiques of traditional environmentalism from a feminist lens
- Case studies of ecofeminist activism
- Intersection with environmental justice movements
7. Feminist Perspectives on Sexuality and Reproductive Rights
- Theories on sexuality and bodily autonomy
- Feminist debates on abortion and contraception
- Sexuality education and its feminist implications
- Access to reproductive healthcare and social justice
- Contemporary issues and policy debates
8. Global Feminisms and Transnational Activism
- Definitions and scope of global feminisms
- Cross-cultural feminist perspectives and challenges
- Transnational activism and solidarity networks
- Addressing gender equality in diverse socio-political contexts
- Case studies of international feminist movements
End of Unit Outline
Unlock the full outline
Get the complete content outline, learning outcomes and assessment methods for Feminist Theories And Perspectives.
KSh 20 one-off, or included with a plan
Learning Outcomes
Unlock the outline above to see learning outcomes.
Assessment Methods
Unlock the outline above to see assessment methods.