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Post-Modern Feminism (French Feminism)

The fundamental argument of this branch of feminism is that there is not one unique, absolute
definition for gender neither biologically nor socially but that gender is a variant
constructed through language. They believe that a dualistic vision of gender creates a
constrictive dichotomy which in itself becomes restrictive of women. Post-modern feminist
Judith Butler argues woman is a questionable category, because it involves much more
class, race, sexuality, and other aspects of individualism all of which in some ways define
each woman independently. She states that therefore gender is a performative word. Thus
the contention of postmodern feminists is that there is no single basis for womens
subordination and no single method of dealing with the issues.

Postmodern Feminism
Aaron Ashba
WS 200
"Postmodern Feminism"
The term postmodern feminism is believed to have begun and widely used in the 1980's.
Postmodern feminism is used to refer to the many different theories within the feminism
movement. Generally, people that use this term are individuals that may be against feminism
overall, as they feel it doesn't relate to today's society. These individuals agree that feminism
was positive, as it was first established to help women receive the rights they deserved. In
today's society, it is viewed by some that women's rights are as they should be and feminism
is no longer needed, hence we are now in the postmodern feminism age. The overall view by
these individuals basically generalize that problems in society today effects everyone as a
whole, not just women. The term is viewed as a new era for women and the thought that they
are completely equal in today's society, moving on from the "old" views of traditional
feminism. The radicalised view of postmodern feminism truly feel it's time to move on from
traditional feminism. This generally consists of white males, as they feel most effected by
feminism as a whole as a direct impact to their individual rights in our society. This differs
from anti-feminist views, as feminism is still viewed positively toward women and it's
historic value for shaping the structure of gender equality today. This view doesn't necessarily
condone the slide back to a patriarchal dominated society again, but that the staunch feminist
may actually contribute to the negative views of women by over-stepping their bounds from
their stances with general societal "issues".
My personal assessment of this view toward feminism does make sense to me now that
women have cemented themselves as leaders in our society. As we move further into the 21st
century, we now have a woman who has a legitimate chance to be a presidential candidate.
This is a movement of grand proportions for all women and should be considered as proof of
equality within our country. I don't believe I would label myself as a "postmodern feminist";
it would be too easy as a white male to fall into that trap. The theory of feminism shouldn't
necessarily go away, but the ideas that existed 50 years ago need to be re-evaluated by the
even the most beloved feminist.

From much of the information listed concerning this topic, Judith Butler's seems to be a name
brought up the most from her 1990 book, "Gender Trouble" and other publications over the
last three decades. As people have claimed that postmodern feminism for offering no clear
path to action, Butler does claim "the term postmodernism as too vague to be meaningful" as
it encompasses so many facets of feminism. For more information on Judith Butler

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