Extra Blog: The strength of democracy and women in the workplace

Our textbook emphasizes gender inequalities and established power structure in many of its discussion of sociological principles. Feminists such as Kathy Ferguson that seem to seek the formation of alternate organization and societal power structure that disparage "male values" and uphold "feminine values" may not realize that their efforts may eventually hurt our democracy.

I have no problem with women entering the workforce. This is essential for many families in our current economic situation and with the cost of living being what it is. Still, I think that there is a tendency among radical feminists to view women who would like to stay at home, support their husbands and take care of the children as unenlightened and oppressed. I think that the discussion in chapter 6 on social capital provided insight into how women dedicating themselves to homemaking and childcare actually help strengthen democracy.

Our text states that strong social capital is essential to democracy. Some sociologists argue that civic engagement and membership in social organizations has declined in the past quarter century. While membership in some organization like the AARP have grown, an increasing percentage of members simply pay dues without really participating in the organization. The book cites one reason for this as the entrance of many women into the workplace whereas before women were traditionally free of career responsibilities and were motivated to participate in volunteer and community organizations. The decrease in civic engagement has been accompanied by a decrease in voter turnout and faith in government. The weakening of social capital has decreased the effectiveness of our democracy.

Every woman should make her own decision about whether to work, stay at home with her kids or devote herself to volunteer work. Still, I think that the failure of radical feminist to recognize homemaking and child rearing as a sphere in which women bring unique feminine gifts and talents and can find real fulfillment may discourage women who are so inclined to devote themselves to the occupation. This could have the long term effect of weakening the fabric of our democracy.