The Social Sciences

Year: 2008
Volume: 3
Issue: 8
Page No. 594 - 600

Religious Organizations and Gender Inequality: The Catholic View Point

Authors : John O. Umoh

Abstract: In the social sciences, gender relations in contemporary feminist theory have few rivals on top of the agenda. Such issues generally revolve around 3 different but complimentary aspects: the dignity of women, the rights of women and the role of women on the different aspects of societal development. The above issues suggest an awareness which is a far cry from past conceptions, derived mainly from biblical sources which portrayed women not only as second class citizens but as objects to be exploited by men. On the basis of the sexist bias, the study takes a look at the historical development of sexism and the position of the Catholic Church as a major religious institution on the matter. It examines the socio-religious dimensions of the male-female relationship common to certain currents of thought often at variance with the authentic advancement of women thereby inhibiting their full integration into the society. It recommends that in the relational dynamics the biblical conception of woman as helpmate be construed as an active helper and collaborator which demands not only recognition but mutual respect of both the biological and cultural complementarity of women and men. Such conception is capable of enhancing the spirit of teamwork and peace in the interest of all.

How to cite this article:

John O. Umoh , 2008. Religious Organizations and Gender Inequality: The Catholic View Point. The Social Sciences, 3: 594-600.

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