Introduction to feminism

Introduction to feminism

Watch this TEDx talk by Everyday Sexism founder Laura Bates:

 

1) Why did Laura Bates start the Everyday Sexism project?

To acknowledge the poor treatment of women sometimes in society and the way it effects them, often going unnoticed.

2) How does the Everyday Sexism project link to the concept of post-feminism? Is feminism still required in western societies?

The Everyday Sexism project links to the concept of post feminism because it shows people beginning to acknowledge the unequal and poor treatment of women sometimes which often goes unnoticed or is normalised. It also acknowledges the way people deal with these problems which is an example of post feminism. I think that feminism is still required in western societies but not as much as in more traditional and non-western societies. 

3) Why was new technology essential to the success of the Everyday Sexism project?

New technology was essential to the success of the Everyday sexism project because it allowed the connection of women and men from all around the world, sharing their stories and experiences. 

4) Will there be a point in the future when the Everyday Sexism project is not required? What is YOUR view on the future of feminism?

I doubt that there will be a point in the future when the Everyday Sexism project is not required because people are entitled to their own views and opinions and it's highly unlikely that there will be the same view about feminism and what they fight for from every single person. I think that as time goes on feminism will continue and more feminist views will be acted upon. 

Media Magazine: The fourth wave?

1) Summarise the questions in the first two sub-headings: What is networked feminism? Why is it a problem?

Networked feminism is divided into four waves to explain the cultural context in which they began. The newest wave of feminism - the fourth wave - is known as 'networked feminism' which aims to tackle social equality issues found both on, and using modern technology. In today’s society is that in the fast-paced world of technological development, feminism can be left behind. New technology is invented every day, digital outlets change and update regularly, and social media platforms make messaging instant.

2) What are the four waves of feminism? Do you agree that we are in a fourth wave ‘networked feminism’? 

The first wave of feminism began in the late 19th to early 20th centuries with the main focus on suffrage. The second wave of feminism began in the 1960's campaigning for the growth of equal rights, leading to equal pay and other acts enforced. The third wave of feminism is believed to have been entered in the 1990's (often identified as post feminism). The new fourth wave of feminism is also known as ‘networked feminism’. it aims to tackle social equality issues found both on, and using, modern technology. I agree that we are in the fourth wave of feminism. 

3) What is your opinion with regards to feminism and new/digital media? Do you agree with the concept of a 'fourth wave' of feminism post-2010 or are recent developments like the Everyday Sexism project merely an extension of the third wave of feminism from the 1990s?

I think that recent feminist developments like the Everyday Sexism project is merely an extension of the third wave of feminism from the 1990s, I believe this because I feel as if these developments are just a form of giving recognition to the actual problems women face in society and are therefore trying to bring an increase in awareness and change. I also think that new digital media is a strong platform for feminist views to be spread and expressed, bringing increased awareness to feminism which is intended to influence greater change in the direction of feminism. However there are counter arguments to digital media and feminism such as Critics of online feminist movements suggest that petitions and pressure from Twitter campaigns is simply a witchhunt orchestrated by privileged middle-class white women.