Ecofeminism

Ecofeminism is a term that came out of the feminist movement in the 1970s, and has evolved into what it means today. For Judith Hendry, "Ecofeminism examines the connections between women and nature and how domination has led to the exploitation of both"  (71).

For example, historical accounts show that before the Enlightenment, nature was viewed as a living, nurturing mother, a beneficent woman who provided for humankind. But after the Enlightenment, nature was described as a resource valued for its "fertility"; landscapes could be "ravaged" or made "barren," or exploited for human needs. According to ecofeminists, the relationship between femininity and nature needs to be an important part of modern environmental discourse.

Examples:

The Green Belt Movement of 1977

This movement was established in Kenya to fight the deforestation of trees.  Many women supported and organized this movement, as it was founded by Wangari Maathaie (a famous female Kenyan political activist) and the National Council of Women of Kenya.

The Chipko Andolan Movement of 1973 

This movement was established and led by a group on indigenous women in India to help rebel against the rapid deforestation happening in that area.

Carol J. Adams, The Sexual Politics of Meat (1990)

This controversial nonfiction book takes on an ecofeminists perspective by arguing that animal oppression and male dominance are linked, as both animals and women are treated as objectifiable sources. E.g., "meat," for men's satisfaction and benefit.

Karen J. Warren, Ecofeminist Philosophy (2000)

• • • • Warren provides countless example of how the language people use often creates a connection between nature and women.  For example, women are often referred to as "animals," "foxes," "chicks," etc.