A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What is a common criticism of liberal feminism?

1. It adequately addresses all societal issues

2. It focuses only on workplace discrimination

3. It neglects the private domestic sphere

4. It advocates for gender-specific roles

The correct answer is: It neglects the private domestic sphere

The criticism that liberal feminism neglects the private domestic sphere highlights a significant limitation in its framework. Liberal feminism primarily focuses on achieving equality through legal reforms, equal opportunities, and tackling discrimination in public life, particularly in the workplace and educational settings. However, critics argue that this approach often overlooks the importance of the private sphere, which encompasses domestic responsibilities and relationships, such as caregiving and household duties. This neglect can perpetuate existing inequalities since many women's experiences and struggles are rooted in the private domain, where traditional gender roles are reinforced. By not fully addressing issues such as domestic labor and the dynamics of power and dependency that occur within the home, liberal feminism may fail to encompass the broader spectrum of women's lives and the social structures that affect them. Thus, while it advocates for women's rights in public life, it may inadvertently contribute to the continuation of patriarchal values in the private sphere, leading to an incomplete understanding of gender inequality.