Second-wave feminism

Definition

Second-wave feminism refers to the feminist movement that emerged in the United States during the 1960s and continued into the 1980s, focusing on a broader range of issues beyond just suffrage, including workplace rights, reproductive rights, and social equality. This wave built upon the achievements of the first wave, expanding its reach to address systemic discrimination and advocating for women's liberation across various aspects of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second-wave feminism was influenced by the civil rights movement and other social movements, seeking to challenge societal norms and advocate for women's rights.
2. Key figures of this wave included Betty Friedan, whose book 'The Feminine Mystique' highlighted women's dissatisfaction with traditional gender roles.
3. The movement resulted in significant legislative changes, such as the establishment of Title IX in 1972, which prohibited sex discrimination in educational programs.
4. It also addressed issues such as sexual harassment, domestic violence, and marital rape, bringing these topics into public discourse.
5. Second-wave feminism laid the groundwork for later feminist movements by promoting intersectionality and recognizing the diverse experiences of women from different backgrounds.

Review Questions

• How did second-wave feminism build upon the achievements of first-wave feminism, and what new issues did it address?
  • Second-wave feminism expanded on the foundation laid by first-wave feminism, which primarily focused on women's suffrage. While first-wave feminists sought voting rights, second-wave feminists tackled a wider array of issues such as workplace equality, reproductive rights, and social justice. This wave emphasized systemic discrimination against women in various societal sectors and aimed for comprehensive changes to improve women's status and rights across all areas of life.
• Evaluate the impact of key texts, like 'The Feminine Mystique', on the second-wave feminist movement and societal perceptions of women's roles.
  • Key texts such as 'The Feminine Mystique' had a profound impact on second-wave feminism by articulating the dissatisfaction many women felt with their prescribed domestic roles. Betty Friedan's work challenged the notion that a woman's identity was solely tied to motherhood and marriage. This sparked widespread discussions about women's aspirations beyond traditional roles and contributed significantly to raising awareness about gender inequality, thereby mobilizing women to advocate for change.
• Analyze how second-wave feminism paved the way for contemporary feminist movements and discuss its relevance in today's society.
  • Second-wave feminism laid critical groundwork for contemporary feminist movements by advocating for issues like reproductive rights and gender equality, which remain central today. By introducing concepts like intersectionality, it acknowledged that women’s experiences are shaped by factors such as race, class, and sexual orientation. This nuanced understanding has influenced modern activism, making it more inclusive and reflective of diverse women's voices. The ongoing struggles for equity in various spheres demonstrate the lasting relevance of second-wave feminist ideals in contemporary society.

Related terms

Equal Rights Amendment (ERA): A proposed amendment to the United States Constitution aimed at guaranteeing equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex.

Reproductive Rights: The legal rights and freedoms relating to reproduction and reproductive health, including access to contraception and abortion services.

Gender Equality: The state in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender, emphasizing equal treatment and opportunities for individuals of all genders.