Critique of Modern Feminism

Abstract

This paper explores the counter argument for Chapter 3 of Marriages, Families, and Relationships by Mary Ann Lamanna, Agnes Riedmann, and Susan Stewart, which deals with the topic of Gender Identities and Families, especially regarding feminism. This paper will provide a general summary, main points, and concepts of the chapter that focuses on feminism. Afterwards, this paper will continue to provide a general social, legal, and cultural climate of the time the book was written versus now (2024), and then reflect on some new information and research that disproves the glorification of modern feminism as done in the book. The critique will demonstrate how modern feminism, under the guise of advocating for gender equality, can sometimes promote racist and sexist agendas. Specifically, this paper will detail the mechanisms through which modern feminism disguises itself, manipulating social perceptions to orient one group as superior over others. This will include an analysis of how certain feminist narratives utilize the concepts of victimhood and social proof to establish a hierarchy of suffering and legitimacy, thereby positioning some groups as more deserving of support and resources than others, based on race, class, or historical experiences.