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Do Good Feminists Compete?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 March 2020

Abstract

In this paper I argue against the view widely held among feminists that nurturing and competition are incompatible. I also explore the following two more specific objections against competition: (1) competitions are “mini-wars” which encourage hatred; (2) while not “miniwars,” competitions foster a war-like mentality. Underlying these objections is the fear that too strong a sense of self makes war likely by severing connection with others. I argue that because patriarchy encourages women to have too little sense of self, some competition may be useful.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © 1987 by Hypatia, Inc.

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