Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 100%

Which of the following best describes George Wallaces campaign for president in 1968?

Rationale

It identified restrictive gender roles as a primary cause of dissatisfaction among American women.

Friedan's groundbreaking work highlighted how societal expectations confined women to domestic roles, leading to widespread unhappiness and a sense of unfulfillment among many. This pivotal argument ignited a broader conversation about gender equality and women's rights.

A (He ran as a Democrat opposed to the Vietnam War.) YOUR ANSWER

This choice accurately encapsulates the essence of Friedan's argument in "The Feminine Mystique," as she meticulously articulates how the traditional roles assigned to women resulted in feelings of discontent and a loss of identity beyond homemaking.

B (He ran as a Republican opposed to recognizing communist China.) YOUR ANSWER

While Friedan does touch upon professional barriers, her primary focus is on the psychological impact of domestic roles rather than an extensive analysis of corporate barriers. The book centers more on the dissatisfaction stemming from these roles rather than a detailed exploration of career obstacles.

C (He ran as a Democrat in support of a bigger welfare state.) YOUR ANSWER

This statement misrepresents Friedan's work, as "The Feminine Mystique" is often seen as a foundational text for second-wave feminism, which contrasts sharply with the perspectives of the women of the New Right, who typically embraced traditional gender roles.

D (He ran as an independent in support of racial segregation.) CORRECT

Friedan's book critiques, rather than celebrates, these roles, arguing that they limit women's potential and lead to dissatisfaction. Therefore, this choice fundamentally mischaracterizes her intentions and conclusions.

E (He ran as a Socialist in support of stronger labor unions.) YOUR ANSWER

This choice does not reflect the focus of Friedan's argument. While she acknowledges the value of women's labor, her primary concern is the emotional and psychological ramifications of enforced domesticity, not economic quantification.

Conclusion

Friedan's "The Feminine Mystique" is a seminal text that identified restrictive gender roles as the root cause of many American women's unhappiness. By challenging the notion that fulfillment could only be found in domesticity, Friedan laid the groundwork for the feminist movements that followed, advocating for broader opportunities and recognition of women's aspirations beyond traditional roles.

Related Questions

View all