Second wave feminism

Definition

Second wave feminism refers to the renewed feminist movement that emerged in the 1960s and lasted into the 1980s, focusing on a broader range of issues beyond legal inequalities, such as reproductive rights, workplace discrimination, and gender roles in society. This wave emphasized not just equality under the law but also social and cultural inequalities that women faced, paving the way for significant changes in societal attitudes towards gender. It also laid the groundwork for feminist art, as artists began to use their work as a means of activism and expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second wave feminism was influenced by earlier civil rights movements and aimed at addressing both legal rights and broader societal issues affecting women.
2. Key milestones included the publication of influential texts such as Betty Friedan's 'The Feminine Mystique' which highlighted women's dissatisfaction with traditional gender roles.
3. The movement led to significant legal reforms, including changes in laws regarding employment discrimination, reproductive rights, and domestic violence.
4. Art during this time became a powerful tool for expressing feminist ideas, with artists like Judy Chicago and Barbara Kruger challenging patriarchal narratives through their works.
5. Second wave feminism also sparked debates within the movement about race and class, leading to the emergence of intersectional feminism that considers multiple identities.

Review Questions

• How did second wave feminism expand the focus of feminist activism compared to first wave feminism?
  • Second wave feminism expanded its focus beyond the legal rights addressed in first wave feminism, which primarily concentrated on suffrage. It tackled a wider array of issues including reproductive rights, workplace discrimination, sexual autonomy, and the roles women were expected to play in society. This shift allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of women's oppression and mobilized efforts against social and cultural inequalities, leading to substantial changes in public policy and societal norms.
• In what ways did feminist artists during the second wave contribute to societal change through their work?
  • Feminist artists during the second wave used their art as a medium to confront gender inequality and challenge societal norms. They created works that highlighted women's experiences and critiques of patriarchal structures, often incorporating mixed media and performance art. By doing so, these artists not only raised awareness about women's issues but also inspired activism within the movement, fostering discussions around identity, representation, and power dynamics that still resonate today.
• Evaluate the impact of second wave feminism on contemporary feminist movements and its relevance in today's society.
  • The impact of second wave feminism on contemporary feminist movements is profound, as it laid the groundwork for ongoing discussions around gender equality and social justice. Its focus on intersectionality has influenced current feminist discourse, encouraging an examination of how race, class, and sexuality intersect with gender. Today's activists build upon the legacies of second wave feminists by continuing to advocate for reproductive rights, workplace equality, and dismantling systemic oppression, showcasing that while progress has been made, many challenges remain relevant in today’s society.

Related terms

Feminist Art Movement: An art movement that emerged in the 1970s, where women artists sought to address issues of gender inequality and challenge traditional art practices through their work.

Gender Studies: An interdisciplinary field that examines the roles, experiences, and contributions of gender in society, often focusing on issues related to feminism and social justice.

Consciousness-Raising: A practice popularized by second wave feminists where women gathered to discuss their experiences and raise awareness about shared issues, fostering solidarity and political action.