Myths of man-hating feminists make feminism unpopular
Feminism was one of the most influential political movements in 20th century Western Europe. Yet, in the 21st century, the label 'feminist' is often forcefully rejected, particularly by young women. New research funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) suggests that, in rejecting feminism, women are often seeking to position themselves within conventional norms of femininity and heterosexuality. "In many contemporary European societies, the term feminism provokes unease and even hostility," says Dr Christina Scharff of King's College London, who carried out the research.