Defining Feminism

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Abstract

Feminism is sometimes seen either as multiple or singular as though we have to make a choice along ideological as well as philosophical lines. Feminism, I shall argue, is both multiple and singular, since ‘liberal’, ‘socialist’ and ‘radical’ feminisms are distinctive feminisms that can and should be assessed according to the extent to which they contribute positively to the development of a post-patriarchal society. The same holds for the philosophically differentiated varieties of ‘feminist empiricism’, standpoint and post-modern theory. Each represent differing feminisms within a single body of argument unified by its commitment to the emancipation of women. It is important to distinguish here between the way in which particular theorists regard their endeavours, and the practical implications of the positions taken.