Conservative feminism in Australia: A case study of feminist ideology

Abstract

This paper has both theoretical and empirical aspects. In the theoretical section the ideology of feminism is discussed. It is argued that feminism can be divided into reformist and revolutionary wings. Hence on the one hand those who argue that feminism is inherently bourgeois possess a too narrow conception of feminism while on the other hand, those who see it as providing, by definition, a radical challenge to society have neglected the limitations of both liberal and conservative feminism. An empirical case study of women's groups and activities within Australian conservative parties is offered in support of the theoretical argument described above, namely that feminism (with the exception of the Women's Liberation variety) draws upon the traditions and practice of mainstream political culture. These groups, such as the Australian Women's National League, the Women's Electoral League and the Women's Section of the Liberal Party of Australia, which work on behalf of women's rights and representation, share many features in common with the women's rights stream of second-wave feminism. In particular, it is pointed out that conservative feminism has often been incorrectly dismissed as a defender of status quo. It is concluded that women's organizations associated with the conservative parties have had a strong commitment to women's civil political rights. Consequently, they can be seen as feminist, if feminist is defined either as a group or an individual concerned with women's civil and economic rights and their autonomy and political participation. Analysing the groups' stress upon women's traditional areas is more complex. One schema would see it as ‘female consciousness≐, with overtones of anti-feminism. However another possibility is to view that emphasis as ‘domestic≐ feminism; which has been one response to women's marginal position in society.