Feminist Civil War: Article Analysis

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The Feminist Civil War (1848-) As of 2016, 43% of American citizens described feminism as “angry” and 66% described the term as “outdated” (Cai, Clement). And as of 2013, only 23% of women and 16% of men considered themselves to be feminists (Swanson). Any logical person would think that women would be strong supporters of a movement that advocates and brings awareness to their struggles, however feminism and many of those who support it, do not practice what they preach. Defined by Sally Haslanger in her Stanford article, “Topics in Feminism”, “Feminism is both an intellectual commitment and a political movement that seeks justice for women and the end of sexism in all forms” (Haslanger). There has to be some explanation as to why women do …show more content…
It seems that feminists exclude any and everyone, especially concerning slut shaming. One of the most famous examples of slut shaming is Monica Lewinsky. Stated by CNN, in their article, “A Chronology: Key Moments In The Clinton-Lewinsky Saga”, Monica Lewinsky had a sexual affair with president of the time, Bill Clinton. It is noted that the relationship took place while Lewinsky was a twenty one and twenty two year old intern, who was just starting her career (CNN). Lewinsky was young and more than likely taken advantage of, however the media and society did not take her position into consideration, people still called her vulgar and degrading names. Written in her article, “Shame and Survival”, Lewinsky informs and talks about the struggles she had as a result of the scandal. Lewinsky even stated that in an interview she was asked, “‘How does it feel to be America’s premier blow-job queen?’”. Lewinsky also admits that she had suicidal thoughts due to the shame and being publically humiliated on multiple different occasions (Lewinsky). The country, and even the world, did not and still to this day does not know the whole situation, yet society continues to call Monica Lewinsky, a homewrecker, raunchy, etc, and the same goes for feminists. The same women who look to Hillary Clinton as a sign of hope for feminism are the same women who constantly judged Lewinksy and contributed to her suicidal thoughts. The hypocrisy feminism produces continues to promote exclusion and fuel its anti-intersectionality