FEM: Theories of Religion

Question 1

Evidence FOR Patriarchy - 4 Types

Answer 1

1. Religious organisations - Women are marginalised (Armstrong). Orthodox/Judaism prevents women from becoming Priests
2. Places of Worship - Segregates the sexes/women not allowed to read sacred texts due to pregnancy or menstruation.
3. Sacred texts - Anti-female stereotyped stories (Genesis)
4. Religious laws & Customs - Gives women less rights than men; Catholic churches ban abortion

Question 2

Evidence AGAINST Patriarchy - Armstrong

Answer 2

Women were always placed at the centre - Goddesses and fertility cults in the middle-east 6000 years ago.

Question 3

Evidence AGAINST Patriarchy - Saadawi

Answer 3

Oppression of women is NOT the direct cause of subordination. It is from patriarchal FORMS in society. Monotheism is seen as legitimated power over women.

Question 4

Evidence AGAINST patriarchy - Woodhead

Answer 4

Forms of ‘religious feminism’

a) Hijab/veil - symbol against oppression to escape home and go to education/employment, without losing cultural identity.

b) Respect for roles in the home - men MUST respect women; women have power this way when ‘doing their bit.’

Question 5

Evidence FOR Patriarchy - Simone De Beauvoir

Answer 5

Religion is used by men to control women; false belief that they’ll be rewarded in heaven