Blog #4

Chapter 13

In this chapter, hooks notes that feminists confront sexism within families as a way to hopefully create a future where there would be no need for the anti-sexist movement. This movement called attention to the fact that our society is one that does not value or love its children. They are seen as simply the property, and the adult violence against them is the norm. However, feminist thinkers fail to note that women perpetrate this abuse as much as men. We harshly critique male abuse, yet women are not called out on their actions nearly as often. So, ending this patriarchal domination of children by both men and women is the only way to make family a place where children can be safe and know love.

Question 1

On page 72, bell hooks states "Even in households where no adult male caregiver is present, women taught and teach children sexist thinking." What kind of sexist thinking do you think is being taught to children and how would feminist go about changing that? Also, why do you think a woman would teach her children sexist thinking? Or is it even intentional?

I don't think that transferred sexist thinking is generally intentional. I think that the majority of the sexist ideals are subtle, and mostly go unnoticed. Such as having the boy children take out the trash, and the girls do the dishes. I think the first thing that would need to be done to change what is happening is to actually notice the subtle ideals.


Question 2

Hooks notes that no one wants to call attention to women abusing children. After viewing the video below, why do you think people have done so little to calling attention to this abuse by mothers? What was your reaction to this video? Do you think it was abuse?


Men are more commonly the perpetrators of violence and abuse. Because of this, I think the minority - women - are often put on the back burner as examples. It is less common. The video scared me, and the woman in the video was absolutely emotionally abusing the little boy.




Chapter 14

In Chapter 14, bell hooks makes the claim that the sexual liberation of women
(including non-monogamous relationships and the freedom to be sexually
promiscuous) is a positive result of the feminist movement. We chose to use our
blog to pick apart hooks’ views on sexuality and argue our disagreement. We
urge you, our classmates, to consider both sides of the story and to respond
back to us with your honest feedback and opinions. From an intellectual and
empathic standpoint, we owe it to one another to respectfully consider every
person’s opinion and argument. Therefore, in order that this doesn’t turn into
an irrational and heated mud-slinging session, use this information that is
expressed by both us and your other peers to challenge notions that you’ve always
thought to be true and to grow in your own understandings and knowledge.

Question #1

Bell hooks states “Women having the freedom to be non-monogamous, whether we
exercise that freedom or not, continues to disrupt and challenge the notion
that the female body belongs to men” (hooks, 2000, pg 80-81). Watch the video
below and respond to the following questions: Her decision to forego her
modeling career to reserve her body solely for her husband was a bold choice.
What are your opinions on this? Is this an example of the suppression of a
woman’s sexual freedom and expression? How does this video correspond with the
ideas presented in chapter 14?


My opinion on the video is that she has the freedom to do as she chooses. If that's how she feels...great! Let her be independent and make her own decision about her body. I don't think this is suppression of her sexual freedom and expression because it was her choice to do so. That's freedom, and not suppression. I don't think this fully corresponds with the ideas presented in chapter 14.




Question #2


Bell hooks states, “Marriages built on a sexist foundation are likely to be deeply
troubled and rarely last” (hooks, 2000, pg 83). It’s clear that hooks believes
that traditional gender roles in marriage make for an unequal and dissatisfying
union, clarifying that her definition of sexism is equal or comparable to
patriarchy. It could be argued that hooks would disagree with a traditional
marriage. To bring to life an example of this let us take for instance a
stereotypical traditional marriage. The Catholic Church is known for this ‘sacred union’ between a husband and wife. Today, 50% of marriages end in divorce. We question what you suggest is the solution to a fulfilling marriage? Describe what you think this looks like and why it would be successful. Also, if you are able, describe a marriage that youwould consider ‘loving’ and ‘flourishing.’


My opinion is that marriages often end because of selfish individuals, and traditional expectations. Couples need to understand and find out what roles work best for them, and discuss them before even saying those vows. Each loving and flourishing is different and unique to each couple. This is how it should be because no  two couples are alike, and different people want different roles in the relationship. As long as the roles are understood, marriage is much easier. The biggest thing is communication, compassion, and understanding.