Introduction to Feminism

 Introduction to feminism: blog tasks

Everyday Sexism

Watch the Everyday Sexism TED talk from Laura Bates (linked above) and answer the following questions:

1) Why did Laura Bates start the Everyday Sexism project?

She experienced a lot of sexual harassment in the span of one week, 18 months ago, which convinced her to create the website to allow others to share their similar experiences with the hope of making a change towards the emphasis of gender equality.

2) How does the Everyday Sexism project link to the concept of post-feminism? Is feminism still required in western societies?

It showcases the main goals of feminism, which is to persuade gender equality in society, portraying the concept of post-feminism and also showcasing the objection to backlash of feminism.

3) Why was new technology essential to the success of the Everyday Sexism project?

Because it allowed active audience members to participate in sharing their stories for free on the online website (example of UGC).

4) Will there be a point in the future when the Everyday Sexism project is not required? What is YOUR view on the future of feminism?

I think if society stops normalising gender imbalance, then the world may not need the Everyday Sexism project but as long as inequality follows through I think it is needed to help people realise the issues surrounding feminism.



Media Magazine: The fourth wave?

Read the article: The Fourth Wave? Feminism in the Digital Age in MM55 (p64). You'll find the article in our Media Magazine archive here.

1) Summarise the questions in the first two sub-headings: What is networked feminism? Why is it a problem?

Networked feminism is feminism portrayed in different waves of time periods in which different acts take place, slowly and gradually emphasising gender equality and allowing it to rise as a societal concept, becoming normalised in society. It is a problem because there are still so many misconceptions of the problems women still face that become normalised to some people.

2) What are the four waves of feminism? Do you agree that we are in a fourth wave of ‘networked feminism’? 

There are 4 waves that each contain a different level of objection to gender imbalance, rising throughout the years. Yes, we are in the fourth wave as it is slowly bringing ideas of post-feminism, since people now in the modern world are realising that these gender imbalances should be challenged and more movements and actions are taking place in order to support their ideologies about the unfairness in society.

3) Focus on the examples in the article. Write a short summary of EACH of the following: Everyday Sexism, HeForShe, FCKH8 campaign, This Girl Can.

Everyday Sexism:

An online project where women share experiences of everyday misogyny, showing how widespread and normalised sexism is. It uses digital platforms to turn personal stories into collective evidence.

HeForShe:

A UN campaign encouraging men to support gender equality, made globally visible through social media and celebrity advocacy. It frames feminism as inclusive rather than anti-male.

FCKH8 campaign:

A viral digital campaign that uses shock, humour and celebrities to challenge sexism and discrimination. While effective at gaining attention, it risks oversimplifying feminist issues.

This Girl Can:

A UK campaign promoting women’s participation in sport by challenging stereotypes about female bodies and ability. It uses social media positively but is more institutional than grassroots.

4) What is your opinion with regards to feminism and new/digital media? Do you agree with the concept of a 'fourth wave' of feminism post-2010 or are recent developments like the Everyday Sexism project merely an extension of the third wave of feminism from the 1990s?

I agree that the fourth wave is kind of accurate in terms of new and digital media in the world because I think big influencers online share their views and thoughts promoting feminism and going against anti-feminist by expressing the goals and values that are needed to be met in order to provide gender equality in the world. This means that the world is coming to a a stage of post-feminism.