According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, feminism is defined as "the theory of the political, economic, and the social equality of the sexes". First Wave Feminism came around during the women’s suffrage movement, where they battled legal constrictions and gained the right to vote. Second Wave Feminism expanded the movement, addressing a wider range than First Wave Feminism, including: official legal inequalities, sexuality, family, the workplace, and reproductive rights. Since the 1990’s Third Wave Feminism has focused more on the individual, and less on a global scale. Third Wave Feminists are encouraged to build their own identities, and to accept themselves if they are less than “traditional”.
Third Wave Feminism is loosely defined as "a philosophy that emerged in the 1990s, and focuses on the economic, political, social, and personal empowerment of women". In general, Third Wave Feminism is criticized for its lack of involvement in politics. The focus on identity issues is criticized because some people don’t consider it a universal concern. The Third Wave is slightly ambiguous due to the fact that there has yet to be a legal achievement or formalized goal associated with it, like the right to vote or even reproductive rights. Overall, Third Wave Feminism pulls away from activism and centers on the philosophy of individual empowerment, and moves to improve the lives of women in every aspect of life.
I find the focus of this movement puzzling. In a time where the women of the United States have rights and abilities that their peers in other countries can only dream of, how can the feminist movement be satisfied with dismissing a global focus? The focus on encouraging the development of "identity" and essentially self confidence seems misplaced. The task seems more appropriate for a therapist than a previously political movement.
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