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How do feminists view the roles assigned by Parsons to men and women?

  1. As evolving with society

  2. As beneficial for the family unit

  3. As outdated and limiting

  4. As equitable and fair

The correct answer is: As outdated and limiting

Feminists view the roles assigned by Parsons to men and women as outdated and limiting because these conventional gender roles reinforce traditional expectations that contribute to systemic inequalities between the sexes. Parsons proposed that men take on instrumental roles, focusing on the provision and protection of the family, while women are assigned expressive roles, primarily centered on nurturing and managing the household. Feminists argue that such categorizations restrict individual potential and perpetuate a patriarchal system that diminishes women's agency, often leading to economic dependency and a lack of representation in broader societal contexts. Thus, feminists call for the reevaluation and transformation of these roles to promote equality and allow for more fluid, diverse expressions of gender in both personal and professional spheres.