Conservative feminism operates on the basis that women and men have different roles in society and that women have a need for intimacy, family and children and hence should not pursue careers and public achievement, as this is the realm of men. They feel that complete equality would mean the death of families. Conservative feminism operates from the standpoint that other forms of feminism have become too politically orientated and are, through that, no longer promoting equality. Nor do other forms of feminism celebrate the differences that do exist between men and women. Conservative feminism is also against abortion.

Principles of Conservative Feminism

• The rights of children are paramount, in particular their right to be loved and raised in a nurturing home.
• Women should be able to advance in the workplace if they so choose.
• Equal pay should be given for equal work.
• Celebrate the biological differences between men and women and understand that differences do not make one better than the other.
• Women should not be judged by their style of clothing, hair or demeanor.
• The Right of Life is paramount – abortion should not be legalized.
• Those who violate women and children, such as rapists and pedophiles, have no rights.
• Schools are not a substitute for families.
• Borders of a country should be protected.
• Countries that place restrictions on women and their rights should be contempted.
• Women who chose to be full time carers to their families should be given financial incentives and should be given free opportunities to receive career training once they are ready to return to the workforce.
• There are no or very few appropriate role models in the entertainment industry.
• A woman’s worth should never be judged by the standards set by a man.

List of Conservative Feminism

Many forms of feminism can be considered conservative. Some of these are:

• Equity feminism
• Post feminism
• Domestic feminism
• Balanced feminism
• Evangelical Protestant Christian pro-feminism
• State feminism
• Women’s Equity Action League
• Womansurge
• National Women’s Party
• Individualist feminism
• Backlash feminism

Famous Conservative Feminists

Sarah Palin is a strong example of a conservative feminist. Sarah Palin advocates the role of women in politics and is anti-abortion. She does emphasize with reasons for abortion, her own son has Down syndrome, but remains firmly against it.

Another great example of a conservative feminist is Margaret Thatcher. Interestingly enough, Margaret Thatcher was one of the first female political leaders, 51 years after women were given the right to hold political positions. Yet, she has been quoted to say “I owe nothing to feminism”. It should also be noted that there has never since been a female prime minister in the United Kingdom.

In essence, conservative feminism feels that equality between men and women should exist in as such that they should have equal rights to make choices and equal rights if they decide to be active in the workplace. However, women and men are different on a biological level and this should be celebrated. Conservative feminism is also firmly against abortion.