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To what extent do feminists agree that patriarchy is based on human nature? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer and consider differing views in a balanced way. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 2
Question 5
To what extent do feminists agree that patriarchy is based on human nature? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer and consider d... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:To what extent do feminists agree that patriarchy is based on human nature? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer and consider differing views in a balanced way. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 2
Step 1
Points for the view
Answer
Many feminists believe that patriarchy is rooted in human nature. Some key arguments include:
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Essentialist Perspective: Difference feminists argue that there are inherent values and qualities associated with women that affirm the patriarchal structure. They suggest that characteristics like nurturing and relational skills originate from biological differences.
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Oppression and Power: They argue that the patriarchy is a social construct that evolves from human nature, wherein men dominate due to their historically superior physical capabilities and assertiveness, leading to an oppressive societal hierarchy.
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Gender Differences: Some feminists assert that essential differences between men and women are primary reasons for the establishment of patriarchal structures, advocating for recognition of women's distinctiveness rather than simply equality.
Step 2
Points against the view
Answer
On the contrary, many feminists argue against the notion that patriarchy is based on human nature:
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Social Constructs: The majority of feminists reject the argument that patriarchy stems from inherent human traits, asserting that it is a social construction shaped by cultural and historical contexts.
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Variety of Feminist Views: Almost all feminists highlight that the experience of women varies significantly and thus reject a singular narrative about male domination. Thinkers like Simone de Beauvoir emphasize that gender roles are socially imposed rather than biologically determined.
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Critique of Capitalism: Socialist feminists view patriarchy as a system sustained by capitalism, indicating that economic structures rather than biological factors underlie women's oppression.
Step 3
Conclusions and judgment
Answer
In conclusion, it can be argued that while some feminists contend that patriarchy is indeed linked to human nature, this view is not universally accepted within feminist discourse. Many argue that patriarchy is primarily a societal construct influenced by various factors, predominately economic and cultural. Therefore, a balanced perspective may recognize the role of human nature in shaping gender roles while critically assessing how these roles are enforced through social structures.