Identify and explain the defining features of "third wave feminism" and "fourth wave feminism." 

 

Third wave feminism began in the 1990s and was centered around post-colonial and post-modern thinking. Instead of having a one-dimensional ideal of feminism, there is recognition of different experiences of feminism. There is discussion about how women of color have different experiences than white women, so feminist dialogue should be aware of the differences. The idea of universal womanhood was challenged, and race and ethnicity, sexuality and gender were brought into the feminist conversation. There was a reintroduction of "sexy" in the third wave of feminism. In the second-wave, women often though dressing a certain way or looking a certain way was objectifying of them, but third wave feminism reclaimed traditional femininity and sexuality. There was also a culture of subversion in third wave feminism, with the reclaiming of derogatory terms as a symbol of empowerment. There was also creations of female-only spaces. Inclusion is a core discussion in third wave feminism.

Fourth wave feminism is the "current" wave of feminism. It focuses on breaking societal barriers and championing equality. Fourth wave feminism focuses on social and economic empowerment, with more women breaking the glass ceiling and taking on leadership positions in all aspects of society. Social empowerment refocused on reproductive rights, and fourth wave feminism championed free and easy access to birth control, abortions, and formal educational studies about gender inequalities and sexuality studies. The fourth wave mirrors the second-wave of feminism, where the dialogue was about economic and social empowerment in all aspects of life. Fourth wave feminism sees the inclusion of men in the dialogue, and recognition that the change to a more equal society also require male allies. Intersectionality is a core discussion in fourth wave feminism.