Week 1: Introduction to Feminism

Feminist Politics: Where We Stand (Hooks) - A perspective that acknowledges the oppression of women within a patriarchal society and struggles towards the elimination of sexist oppression and domination for all human beings Women's Health From a Feminist Perspective (Low, Bailey) - Much of medicine is androcentric, instead, women's health needs to take into consideration not only differing biologies, but societal issues as well Feminist Model of Care (Low, Bailey) - 1. Being with women, not doing for women 2. HETEROgeneity (not homogeneity) 3. Minimize power imbalances 4. Rejects Androcentric models of health 5. Normalizing health experiences 6. Acknowledges social aspects of gender norms According to WHO, the following prerequisites must be in place for health to occur: (Low, Bailey) - "State of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity" Freedom from fear of war Equal opportunity for all Satisfaction of all basic needs including food, water, sanitation, education, and decent housing Secure work Useful role in society Political Will Public Support (NOT blood pressure, weight, etc)