Sunday, January 10, 2010

World Religions Contribute to Women's Oppression.


http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/10/opinion/10kristof.html In the above mentioned article, Nicholas Kristoff mentions how major religions can degrade, and abuse women. I would like to add that it is also children, which would also include teenagers, and even adults still living at home, that might also face patriarchal tyranny. There are instances in which fathers will brutally attack, and/or oppress there children, but not bother to harm there wives. Though usually women, as well as children, are in danger from overbearing men, who feel that they are divinely mandated to boss, and beat them. And about his observation about women clergy, in certain evangelical denominations. I feel that this does not make the doctrines any less potentially dangerous. In fact, in some cases, these women can function as a type of enemy within, undermining liberation. Plus, the men usually do not show any more deference, and/or reverence, towards female preachers, than they do towards laity. In fact, the domineering men may actually resent these religious leaders even more, for daring to rebuke them, when the need arises. Women in positions of authority must learn to back up there words with deeds, if they ever hope to withstand the onslaught of male chauvinist opposition. Lest they start something that progressive men, like myself, will have to finish. Possibly with brute force. But all would be oppressors must be made to realise that they shall not be allowed to prevail against the rights, and liberties, of the people. God or no God. All tyrants, both human, and divine, must be resisted.

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