Feminism

Question 1

Hierarchy oppressive (2)

Answer 1

The hierarchy excludes women or leaves them in subordinate positions e.g. Orthodox Judaism women cannot be priests

Question 2

Hierarchy liberating (2)

Answer 2

Some religions becoming more egalitarian allowing women to be included in organisational hierarchy, CofE women can be priests

Question 3

Teaching and roles oppressive

Answer 3

Islam teach a woman’s place is in the nurturing role of a mother

Question 4

Teaching and roles liberating

Answer 4

Woodhead (liberal)- religion provides a clear role and status in the family making them feel valued

Question 5

Customs oppressive

Answer 5

Islam- men can say ‘talaq’ 3 times to divorce their wives, women have to prove serious misconduct

Question 6

Veiling oppressive

Answer 6

Veiling of women- powerful symbol of patriarchy that strips women of their identity

Question 7

Veiling liberating

Answer 7

Many muslim women wear it as a symbol of liberation and it helps avoid the male gaze

Question 8

Images oppressive

Answer 8

Women oppressed through religious images- Eve is the temptress that corrupts Adam

Question 9

Aldridge (radical)

Answer 9

Sexual pleasure for women is condemned in many religions and sexuality for non-reproductive purposes is prohibited

Question 10

Holm (radical)

Answer 10

Women’s menstruation is nearly always seen as polluting. In Hinduism and Islam they’re forbidden from entering sacred places during periods

Question 11

Watson (liberal)

Answer 11

Many women find the veil advantageous as they can enter the public sphere avoiding the male gaze

Question 12

Walby (radical)

Answer 12

Women encouraged by religious teachings to fulfil domestic housewife role

Question 13

Evaluation

Answer 13

Considers how religion can be both oppressive and liberating for women

Question 14

Criticism

Answer 14

Postmodernists may argue that religion can’t enforce patriarchy with increased diversity and beliefs