Feminism

Feminism is the philosophy that women deserve to have rights equal to those of men. Most feminist writing today concerns issues like abortion, domestic violence, rape, maternity leave, lesbian rights, child custody, and comparable worth.

Feminism is necessary because of sexist attitudes to women throughout history, as demonstrated in these quotes from the Bible: "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

"Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety." -- I Tim. 2:9-15.

Not all women are feminists. Several examples are Phyllis Schlafly, who opposed the Equal Rights Amendment in the 1960s, and Dr. Laura Schlessinger, who says that her purpose is “to deal in truths and values about life, love, death, responsibilities, character, religion and general, everyday behavior.”.