‹ All questionsPaper 2 Ideology · Sample · 24 marks
To what extent is the disagreement within feminism about the nature of men and women significant to this political idea? (24 marks)
Non-Core Ideologies: Feminism
Mark scheme: agreement
AO1 Feminists agree that nature is a key factor in the oppression of women (though they disagree on what that nature is).
AO2 Equality feminists reject the idea that men and women have different natures, believing that women's biology should not determine their social position (de Beauvoir); difference feminists believe that men and women are essentially different, stemming from biology.
[IJ] These two views are fundamentally different; any agreement over differing natures of men and women is unlikely as both come from different ideological positions.
AO1 All feminists seek to advance the role of women based on their true nature.
AO2 Difference feminists reject the central premise of equality feminists, believing equality feminism encourages women to be 'male identified' and perpetuates 'otherness' (de Beauvoir); equality feminists believe society should be 'gender blind'.
[IJ] The difference in how women can be emancipated is stark and shows the level of agreement is low, with a wide gap in ideological perspectives on human nature.
AO1 Feminists agree that gender oppression can and should be overthrown.
AO2 Difference feminists disagree with equality feminists over how patriarchy can be overthrown; difference feminists believe liberation is achieved through difference, equality feminists believe gender stereotypes must be challenged (Millett).
[IJ] This highlights the fundamental difference between the two strands; equality feminists see equality as the solution, whereas difference feminists see it as the problem.
Mark scheme: disagreement
AO1 Equality feminists believe that human nature is androgynous and see gender as a social construct (de Beauvoir) and seek a society that is gender neutral (bell hooks).
AO2 Feminists agree that the gender roles imposed on women by society ignore their true nature and impose huge restrictions on women in many ways in society.
[IJ] This is an area of commonality, showing that feminists can agree on the significance of the nature of men and women and reject stereotypical gender roles imposed by society.
AO1 All feminists agree on the need for a society where women are free to determine their own gender roles.
AO2 All feminists agree on the need for a society where women are free to take up any position in society without prejudging their nature.
[IJ] Shows a unifying belief within feminism that a gender-free society is not only desirable but possible.
AO1 Feminists agree that only when women are encouraged to allow their true nature to evolve can they be truly emancipated.
AO2 Feminists agree that it is essential for women to develop a positive relationship with their true nature.
[IJ] Clearly shows that there is agreement within feminism to encourage women to connect with their true nature.
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