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Feminism is frequently split into two categories; first wave feminism (in the late 19th century) and second wave feminism (in the 1960’s and 1970’s). First wave feminism was rooted upon politics. This era campaigned for improved rights for women such as, enfranchisement, right to own property and improved education syllabus. The second wave of feminism concentrated on the lack of rights relating to home life. Topics such as reproduction, domestic violence and sexuality were raised.
From research it is apparent that first wave feminism challenged the limitations women faced with regards to property ownership, suffrage and divorce. The excuse used by governing bodies and males in general was ‘women’s apparent failure to display the values associated with human nature’ (McLaughlin, 2003).
Second wave feminism focused on the abuse and prejudice endured in the private sphere and campaigned for improved private sphere conditions.
Ignoring the categories of first wave and second wave feminism it is important to acknowledge the two general themes within the feminist critique. The first theme is ‘the ways in which gendered nature of social practices and institutions has been ignored and gender neutrality assumed within society and social policies’ (Lavalette, Pratt, 2001) In other words how social practices show no equality in terms of gender and assume this is correct. The second theme is based around how significant concerns to women are repeatedly cast aside from politics. On the other hand it is vital to also bear in mind that issues and concepts raised by feminists is ever changing due to changing social policies and attitudes.
A question to raise when discussing feminist critique of social welfare is how did feminism come about. This then outlines concerns of feminist especially from the first wave of feminism.
A main origin is the attitude of men and the patriarchal structure of all regions of welfare. Women were divided into...