How does Religion reproduce and legitimatise gender inequality
sexual apartheid. This refers to the idea that religion encourages the segregation of men and women
What is an example of sexual arpatheid
In Orthodox Judaism, women sit separately to men.Men sit at the front whilst woman watch from the back behind screens with tinyholes.Women sit in the worst seats with very limited views of what is happening,keeping them subordinate to men.
What do Radical Feminists fail to consider regarding sexual apartheid in religions?
They fail to consider how individual followers may view their roles differently.
Another way Religion reproduces and legitimates gender inequality
Gender paradox.Radical feminists claim there is a contradiction in religion.On one hand,women are the main consumers (involved) in religion yet they are marginalised by religion.This maintains patriarchy as men remain in dominant,privileged positions whilst women are kept subordinate and are excluded with inferior treatment.
Example of gender paradox
Woman are the most involved in religious events eg. do all the cooking,preparing offerings for Gods yet aren't allowed to enter the temple when menstruating as they are seen as dirty and polluting.
Evaluation of gender paradox
El Sadawi argues you shouldn't blame religious scriptures for oppressing women,but rather the male interpretation of them for their own advantage.
How does religion act as a tool of social control
women facing a stained glass ceiling. This means that there is an invisible barrier to leadership positions in religion.Most religious leader are male,whilst most followers are female.
Examples of women facing a stained glass ceiling
In Islam,women generally cannot be imams
In the Roman Catholic Church, women cannot be priests or bishops
Evaluation of women facing a stained glass ceiling
For example,Libby Lane became the first woman bishop of the Church of England in December 2014.
Also, in Islam there are now a small number of female Imams.
Another way religion acts as a tool of social control
religiouslaws and customs.
Feminists point out women are usually given fewer rights and opportunities compared to men.
examples of religious laws and customs
Christianity,Islam and Judaisim require women to dressmodestly and ensure they are suitably covered in public.
Behaviour -Religion controls female behaviour eg.Catholicism has strict rules on the use of contraception and abortion.
In Islam,women are expected to pray behind men,some faiths allow men to marry more than onewife.
Evaluation of religious laws and customs
Badawi would criticise this, arguing that some feminists ignore how religion can be positive for women.Eg.religious rules that control muslim women can be liberating rather than oppressive - eg.wearing traditional dress provides greater security in a sexist society from unwanted male gaze.However, women aren't obligated to contribute to household expenses, a responsibility that falls solely on men.