Socialist feminism, often referred to as second wave feminism, came into prominence in the 1960’s when women started to apply Marxist ideas to the issue of women’s inequality. At its core socialist feminist see the inequality of women as a function of class exploitation through the capitalist structure of our economy (Sawer & Simm, 1984, p179). This can be characterised by the hierarchical structure of capitalism as well as that of all exploitation. For example, one group (the

In conclusion, the radical feminist movement, while producing the bulk of feminist action, has largely been disbanded. Although still in existence, the days of marches and bra burning seems to have faded into the feminist history books. Modern theorists have largely discredited biological determinism as a ‘fixed’ source of inequality. Socialist feminism has produced many sound theories to explain the inequalities toward women and methods to redress the problems. Both perspectives have given women greater insight into the dynamics of their oppression. Many contemporary issues have been ‘taken up’ by new feminist groups, in particular, the postmodernist feminist movement. This group has many ties to both socialist and liberal feminism. Its strength lies in social theory and action through reform. Liberal feminists continue to be prominent in political activity and have arguably had the greatest impact on society in the history of feminism. There is a need for greater awareness of how gender roles are socially constructed, and that changes need to take place at this level before we can reach the ideal of the egalitarian society.

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