Feminism

Feminism

According to the Pocket Dictionary of Apologetics & Philosophy of Religion, feminism is understood as “A way of thinking that makes the differential experiences of men and women fundamental to its conclusions and methods. Feminists argue that much traditional scholarship in many fields reflects an unconscious male bias, adding that when theorizing takes account of women’s interests and identities, it can help overcome these problems”. It also went on to note: “It is important to distinguish among various forms of feminism, such as liberal feminism, socialist feminism and so-called radical feminism. Though many feminists are stridently anti-Christian and antireligious, some feminists are committed Christians who argue that a concern for women’s well-being is grounded in Christian views of equality.” There is ground for this statement as the Bible advocates women’s welfare and destiny, most notably in Proverbs 31, the book of Ruth and Esther, not forgetting the many incidents reported in the Gospels of lives of women who was touched by Jesus later became ministers. In addition to this, the New Testament records the ministry of female teachers and elders. So feminism shouldn’t be a funny word after all, since it is natural for females to champion concerns for females and it is a historical fact that women in general, had in times past been denied much of the access to self-development and corporate or even political achievement. Much has changed in the last 30 years in which women have been increasingly visible in their contribution and excellence in many fields traditionally heralded by men. Take for example Margaret Thatcher in politics, Mother Teresa in mercy works. Israel, to my surprise, had a female prime minister, Golda Meir in 1969 (she was then 71!) who steered the country in the midst of wars. The following definition of the Reader's Digest Universal Dictionary offers much comfort that feminism is really a positive thing, unless it fell into the hands of the loony: "A social movement that seeks to change the traditional role and image of women, to eliminate sexism, and to heightenm appreciation of the experiences and qualities unique to the female sex."