The Women's Sphere

In the article "Feminism Old Wave and New Wave," Ellen Dubois talks about the 'woman's sphere.' She discusses how women in the early feminist movements realized that if they were to succeed and establish rights for women, they had to begin working solely within a female regime. Women were not going to create any extraordinary changes for themselves if they were advocating within groups or movements that contained men.


This idea still persists in some modern day groups or movements. Many women believe that men should not have any say in issues such as abortion or birth control. These are direct concerns for women and affect their bodies and men have nothing to do with them. Men cannot possibly understand or see from their perspective. However, I believe this to be an outdated idea. True, most men originally fought against feminism and the right for sexual equality. Now, however, women have achieved most of their original goals and thus it is time to enlighten men who are still opposed to gender equality. By talking with men, allowing them opinions, have open discussions about such issues as birth control and abortion, we can teach them and open up their minds. Sure its hard for a men to understand what its like to be a woman today but we can help them learn and they can offer support and sympathy when we tell them of our struggles. And thus, perhaps, then they can understand somewhat what women go through and act accordingly politically and socially. They might start to understand (those who don’t at this point) why women are on birth control or why hiding cleavage instead baring all can make someone feel more beautiful. Men can also offer alternative perspectives or ideas that will benefit us. The woman’s sphere is no longer beneficial. Men have started to open their eyes and will continue to do such if we allow them to see what we see.




This video is somewhat an example of shutting men out. It was made by “Girl’s Night In” which fights against breast cancer and works to spread cancer awareness. However, it targets women and women only. Its meeting are exclusively female. Is this the best option? Should men be excluded from this group?