A Study of Anti-Woman Attitudes Throughout Western History

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In summary, the conversation discusses a study by Professor John Hartung Ph.D. on anti-woman cultural norms throughout Western history. The study explores the historical origins of these beliefs and the impact they have had on the well-being of females. It also discusses the biblical roots of these norms, such as the idea of chastity and fidelity and the practice of killing or punishing women for suspected adultery. The conversation also mentions how these attitudes exist in other cultures and the role of religion in perpetuating them. However, the speaker argues that anti-woman attitudes are not specific to Christianity, but rather a human legacy.
  • #1
Scientific Method
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Today, I just completed reading this study of anti-woman cultural norms throughout Western history. It explains the historical origins of these beliefs and how the passing of these cultural memes throughout the generations affected the well-being of females:

Written by Professor John Hartung Ph.D.

Chastity & Fidelity

Biblical Roots of the Short Leash On Women

Men's problem with paternity -- the possibility that their putative children are not their genetic offspring -- can be alleviated by killing brides who do not bleed on first penetration, by murdering prospective wives who are not virgins, by torturing and murdering wives who are suspected of adultery, and by executing women who have committed adultery. The effectiveness of these practices is enhanced if they are codified and sanctified by religious texts that inculcate cultural norms. Such legitimacy is lent to sexual repression and violence by Judeo-Christianity's holy scriptures.


Although some non-Western cultures also sanctify these practices, in other cultures women have traditionally been "very free and at liberty in doing what they please with themselves" (Barbosa 1500:105-6). It follows that the Bible's dark legacy is more an artifact of religion than a stipulation of human nature.

KEY WORDS: Chastity; Adultery; Paternity; Sexual repression; Murder; The Bible; The Torah; The Talmud, The Midrash Rabbah

[ . . . ]

Complete article at http://members.aol.com/toexist/CFhome.html
 
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  • #2
It is TOTALLY wrong to hang these attitudes upon the Christian culture as such.
While no Biblical fan myself, you should check into:
1) Ancient Chinese culture
2) Ancient Hindu culture
3) Modern Islamic culture
+ a lot other cultures.
This dark legacy is not specifically Christian, it is a specific HUMAN legacy, however little we may like it.
 
  • #3
". . . if the thing is true, that the tokens of virginity were not found in the young woman, then they shall bring out the young woman to the door of her father's house, and the men of her city shall stone her to death with stones . . ."

I like that: stone her to death with stones. What else would you stone someone to death with? It really makes you wonder what the Jewish fascination with stoning is. It seems that for every transgression committed, the old testament prescribed stoning as rectification.
 
  • #4
arildno said:
It is TOTALLY wrong to hang these attitudes upon the Christian culture as such.
While no Biblical fan myself, you should check into:
1) Ancient Chinese culture
2) Ancient Hindu culture
3) Modern Islamic culture
+ a lot other cultures.
This dark legacy is not specifically Christian, it is a specific HUMAN legacy, however little we may like it.

I personally agree with you. But, Professor John Hartung, coming from a Jewish background, has an interest in focusing on the Judeo-Christian aspect, while not denying anti-woman attitudes in other cultures as well.
 
  • #5
arildno said:
It is TOTALLY wrong to hang these attitudes upon the Christian culture as such.
While no Biblical fan myself, you should check into:
1) Ancient Chinese culture
2) Modern Hindu culture
3) Modern Islamic culture
+ a lot other cultures.
This dark legacy is not specifically Christian, it is a specific HUMAN legacy, however little we may like it.

Corrected.
 
  • #6
Infidelity has more consequences than uncertain lineage of children; STDs, for example. There are good reasons to be faithful to your spouse.
 

1. What is the purpose of the study?

The purpose of this study is to examine the prevalence and perpetuation of anti-woman attitudes throughout Western history. By analyzing historical events and societal norms, we aim to better understand the origins and impact of these attitudes.

2. How is "anti-woman attitudes" defined in this study?

In this study, anti-woman attitudes refer to beliefs, behaviors, and systems that discriminate against, oppress, or devalue women. This can include sexism, misogyny, and gender-based violence, among others.

3. What time period does the study cover?

The study covers Western history, which spans from ancient civilizations to modern times. However, the focus is primarily on the past few centuries, as societal attitudes and norms have significantly evolved during this time.

4. How are data and evidence collected for this study?

Data and evidence for this study are collected through extensive research of historical documents, literature, and other sources. This may include analyzing primary sources, such as letters and diaries, as well as secondary sources, such as academic articles and books.

5. What are the potential implications of this study?

This study can provide insights into the persistence of anti-woman attitudes in Western societies and how they have influenced gender dynamics and relationships throughout history. It can also inform efforts to challenge and dismantle these attitudes in the present and future.

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