Modesty, feminism, and freedom

[lackofsatin]

In my Jane Austen and Film class, we had a discussion on the changing roles on women. Some boys got into a rather heated discussion about the role of women’s clothing. One asked why women chose to degrade themselves by dressing so provocatively. Another countered that it was perfectly acceptable for women to dress and act like sluts, and that

Comments

[miloseva]

For what it's worth (and my opinion is worth little), I respect women like yourself. Self-respect is a rare gift--don't change that.

[lackofsatin]

It's worth a lot to hear that from a young man such as yourself, and I really appreciate it. Thank you.

[blaueteufelin]

I totally agree, though you might find it odd that I say so, in light of my recent posts ;) I think the problem with modern feminism is that it identifies very real problems (at least most of the time), but offers completely inadequate solutions. They say, "our culture denigrates and devalues women, so let's act just like men" - no pregnancy, no modesty, no tenderness, no self-sacrifice. That's not freedom, that's total capitulation to the misplaced values of our culture. It's bondage.

[blaueteufelin]

What I mean to say is, it's sad that the feminist response to cultural misogyny is to despise children, despise motherhood, and despise all the good things that make us, well, women.

[lackofsatin]

Exactly. As if self-hatred is a better solution.

So very well put.

[lackofsatin]

I totally agree.

I do agree we must always respect the dignity of all people, including feminists, and really listen to what they have to say- they have some very valid points, but come to bizzare conclusions. Yes, men shouldn't be overgrown children, men shouldn't abuse women, women should be able to express herself without fear of humiliation in the classroom. But the conclusion is not to correct these problems but instead makes women worthless by stripping them of their uniqueness and dignity. The oppression only got worse because now, instead of saying that women are lesser than men, we are saying that women should not exist at all. Only the masculine remains.

There's nothing free about that.

[indigodye]

Do you mind if I post this in my journal?

[lackofsatin]

Not at all!

[prima_donna87]

I am glad I wasn't in your class as I probably would of lost it. I hate it when people try to shift the blame on everyone else but themselves,it is so sad and yet isn't that how human nature is? Ever since the beginning we have been trying to convinced God and each other that everything isn't our fault.

I wear dresses or skits all of the time because that is what I feel I should do.I totally agree with you about how these women think they are so 'free and enlightened' when in reality they are in bondage to the world and to fashion- and you know who dicates fashion? Men! So they are going right along with what men want them to do.

The only way you can be free from anything is through God as Feminism is not the answer as it has not brought very good results.

[lackofsatin]

I probably should have spoken up more, but I was just too angry at the time. It literally turns my stomach to know women think this way about their 'choices.' All they are doing is trusting themselves further and further into the hands of someone else.

So true...God is our only way to freedom, since through God we can only be the women we were meant to be.

[gracefullady]

I think I'm going to put this in my journal too. Great thoughts, Vi! I feel the same way.

[lackofsatin]

Yah! You made an excellent post! Much more explained and thourough than mine!