Ecofeminism

“Ecofeminism” is a term coined by French feminist Francoise d'Eaubonne first used in her work, “ Le féminisme ou la mort” in 1974 (Paisain). Ecofeminism later branched out into different sects, just like feminism did (for example, liberal feminism) ( Warren ).

What is Ecofeminism?

Ecofeminists believe that patriarchy and male domination is harmful to women, as well as the environment. There is a link between a male's desire to dominate unruly women and wilderness. Men feel as though they must tame and conquer both in order to have complete power. Ecofeminists say that it is this desire that destroys both women and the Earth. Ecofeminists believe that women have a central role in preserving nature because woman understand and are one with nature. There is a deep connection that men cannot understand between the Earth and women, hence the terms Mother Nature or Mother Earth. Women need to use their superior insight to reveal how humans can live in harmony with each other and with nature (Stewart).

The “deep connection” and references to Mother Nature are the result of the spiritual symbol of the Greek goddess, Gaia, who “[gave] birth to the universe by herself” (Kheel).

Pros:

This definition works as a great empowering mechanism for women to step forward and help the environment. It seems to invite new and original ideas (“superior insight”) about how to change lifestyles to better suit Mother Nature and regular, day-to-day relationships.

Cons:

While this puts women at a great central position of power to counterbalance the so-called “male domination” (which in itself may or may not be true), it also stresses women have a responsibility to uphold because of said connection. It assumes that every woman wants to have this link to nature and, while a label like “environmentally-unfriendly” is too harsh a criticism, many women may not like what is essentially a “hippie” definition. Another fact to consider is that women's “superior insight” may not always be totally infallible.