Feminist Theory and Abortion

Paper Summary:

This paper seeks to take a critical look at feminist theory in light of the second wave of feminism by breaking down feminism into its various belief systems and foundations. A short section on feminist bioethics is also presented including its history and foundation. The next section of the paper focuses on abortion in light of feminist theory. The paper then concludes with a personal discussion on the author's agreement with the pro-choice feminist theory on abortion. While theory and foundations on feminism are presented for both pro-choice and pro-life feminist theory, this writer believes that the maintenance of a pro-choice feminist ideology is critical.

Outline:
Abstract
Feminist Theory and Feminism
Feminist Bioethics
Abortion in Light of Feminist Theory - US
Abortion in Light of Feminist Theory - International
This Writer as 'Pro-Choice' - Statement
This Writer as 'Pro-Choice' - Personal Ideology

From the Paper:

"Stewart (2003) tells us that from the late 1960s into the 1970s, feminists started developing their own theory as to what feminism was, but by the 190s, there were conflicting opinions and viewpoints on the best way to challenge the patriarchy. Ermarth (2000) comments on the differing viewpoints of feminism that are all individual components of the "feminist umbrella" she refers to as 'identity politics.' To Ermarth (2000), how one identifies themselves determines their concept of feminism. Ermarth (2000) tells us that feminism can take on any meaning, although the most common refers to the social factors related to male supremacy and an opposition to any kind of domination. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Arcana, J. (2000). Feminist politics and abortion in the US. The Society for the Psychology of Women. Retrieved on December 24, 2006 from http://www.prochoiceforum.org/uk/psy_1l8.asp
• Arthur, J. (1999). Abortion in Canada. Pro Choice Action Network. Retrieved on December 24, 2006 from http://www.prochoiceactionnetwork-canada.org/ articles/canada.shtml.
• Clark, C. R. (2003). Feminism and abortion. Retrieved on December 24, 2006 from http://christendom-awake.org/ pages/may/feminismabortion.htm
• Donchin, A. (2004). Feminist bioethics. The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Winter 2004 Edition), Edward N. Zalta (Ed.). Retrieved on December 24, 2006 from http://www.seop.leeds.ac.uk/archives/win2004/entries/feminist-bioethics/
• Ermarth, E. (2000). What counts as feminist theory? Feminist Theory, 1, 113-118. Retrieved on December 24, 2006 from http://www.spin.net.au/~deniset/brefpap/ewhatfem/awhatfem.pdf

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