Feminism

I feel that feminism today is there, but it’s different and not as loud as it was in the 1970s and before.  Whether that is because of the stigmas associated with being a feminist or whether women today just aren’t as passionate about it, I’m not sure which one is the best explanation why. Feminism of yesteryear, use to be about fighting for issues such as the right to vote and equality in the workplace. These issues dealt with women as a whole. Today, it is more about how women can empower themselves.  Even to the extent where certain women choose to sexual exploit and objectify themselves in an effort to prove they have control over what they do with their own bodies. In the past it was seen as only men objectified women, but now it seems to be acceptable for women to do it to themselves as a sign of power and control. Celebrities like Miley Cyrus, who have gone on record to say they are feminists, prove this sort of post feminism attitude by throwing their sexuality in everyone’s faces. Which is something that can be empowering for some, but also harmful to those feeling the pressure to look “perfect.” Something discussed in Mary Lambert’s song, as well as the readings by Chernik and Muscio.