Far from a manifesto, The Feminine Mystique focused almost
exclusively on white middle-class women and eschewed radical
solutions. Nonetheless, the book was a crucial catalyst in the re-
launching of the relatively dormant women's rights movement
conceptualized by earlier feminists like Emma Goldman and
Margaret Sanger. Friedan herself recognized her obligation to
take things further.
“I realized that it was not enough just to write a book,” says Friedan.
“There had to be social change. And I remember somewhere in that
period coming off an airplane [and] some guy was carrying a sign.”
That sign, which read, “The first step in revolution is consciousness,” inspired
Friedan to puts words into action by founding the National Organization for
Women, the National Women's Caucus, and the National Abortion Rights
Action League.
Viewed through the prism of the twenty-first century, Friedan's critique appears obvious… even
tame. But that is the essence of social change. Initially rejected, new ideas are typically co-opted
and eventually taken for granted. Friedan and her book played their role; it's the work of today's
feminists that takes the struggle to the next level.
tame. But that is the essence of social change. Initially rejected, new ideas are typically co-opted
and eventually taken for granted. Friedan and her book played their role; it's the work of today's
feminists that takes the struggle to the next level.
TIMELINE:
1963 Timothy Leary is dismissed from Harvard.
86