Betty Friedan

Definition

Betty Friedan was an American feminist, writer, and activist, best known for her groundbreaking book 'The Feminine Mystique' published in 1963. This work is credited with sparking the second-wave feminism movement in the United States by challenging traditional gender roles and the concept of women as primarily homemakers. Friedan's ideas about women's dissatisfaction with domestic life resonated widely, leading to a greater push for women's rights and equality in various spheres of society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Betty Friedan was instrumental in founding the National Organization for Women (NOW), which aimed to promote equal rights for women and address discrimination in the workplace.
2. Her book 'The Feminine Mystique' sold over three million copies and is considered a catalyst for the feminist movement in the 1960s and beyond.
3. Friedan argued that women should have the same opportunities as men in education and careers, not just limited to domestic roles.
4. She emphasized the importance of women's voices being heard in public discourse and advocated for legislation to support gender equality.
5. Friedan's activism extended beyond feminism; she also worked on issues related to civil rights, peace, and social justice throughout her life.

Review Questions

• How did Betty Friedan's work influence the second-wave feminist movement?
  • Betty Friedan's work significantly influenced the second-wave feminist movement by addressing women's dissatisfaction with traditional roles through her book 'The Feminine Mystique.' This book highlighted how many women felt unfulfilled despite living comfortable lives as housewives. By articulating these feelings, Friedan galvanized women to seek greater opportunities beyond domesticity, leading to a broader awareness of gender inequality.
• In what ways did Betty Friedan contribute to the establishment of the National Organization for Women (NOW), and what were its goals?
  • Betty Friedan played a crucial role in establishing NOW in 1966, which aimed to address systemic discrimination against women. The organization sought to advocate for equal rights in employment, education, and reproductive rights. Under Friedan's leadership, NOW became a pivotal force in pushing for legislative changes that promoted gender equality and fought against social norms limiting women's roles.
• Evaluate the impact of Betty Friedan's ideas on contemporary discussions about gender roles and women's rights.
  • Betty Friedan's ideas continue to resonate in contemporary discussions about gender roles and women's rights by challenging traditional perceptions of femininity. Her arguments laid the groundwork for ongoing debates about work-life balance, equal pay, and reproductive rights. Today, her legacy can be seen in movements advocating for intersectional feminism and broader societal recognition of diverse women's experiences and challenges across various sectors.

Related terms

The Feminine Mystique: 'The Feminine Mystique' is a book by Betty Friedan that critiques the notion that women should find fulfillment solely through homemaking and motherhood, highlighting widespread feelings of discontent among housewives.

National Organization for Women (NOW): Founded in 1966 by Friedan and others, NOW is a feminist organization aimed at advocating for women's rights and equality across various aspects of American life.

Second-Wave Feminism: A period of feminist activity starting in the 1960s, focusing on issues such as workplace rights, reproductive rights, and legal inequalities, significantly influenced by the writings of activists like Friedan.