John Stuart Mill was considered a radical during the Victorian Era. What does it take to be classified a radical? You just have to respect your wife and consider her an equal. Oh! The horror of such a radical view, this was a man after my own independent female heart!
Mill became a political activist at a young age. He was even arrested at the age of seventeen for distributing information about birth control. His Statement Repudiating the Rights of Husbands, spoke to his revolutionary thoughts on women’s rights. In his statement, he relinquishes his right of ownership over his wife. He very clearly states,
“that she retains in all respects whatever the same absolute freedom of action, and freedom of disposal of herself and of all that does or may at any time belong to her, as if no such marriage had taken place; and I absolutely disclaim and repudiate all pretence to have acquired any rights whatever by virtue of such marriage”
This was written March 6, 1851 a full hundred and fourteen years before the American Civil Rights Movement. This was radical thinking. John Stuart Mill is making another statement. He not only campaigns for women’s rights but he brings it home. This was evidence that he walked the walked. He was being completely transparent with this statement.
I was definitely born in the right time. I am very independent by nature. My mother encouraged my independence. I was taught to think and speak for myself. In my journey to receive my degree, I have taken philosophy and English classes. I have read female authors and explored their history. The time for women is now. Women are strong. Women hold the power. Unfortunately, it is not the same for all women. There are countries that still hold fast to the barbaric notion of women as property. I pray for those women that progress reaches them some day. I am grateful for the strong and brave women that have paved the way for me.
Joan,
ReplyDeleteMill may have been the first male feminist! I did not think about this piece being written before the Civil Right Movements. It is something to think about in terms of humanity, injustice and lastly justice. Mills wanted justice for his wife and ultimately society. He made no bones about it. He may have been perceived as radical. I think he just wanted to be fair and righteous. Absolutely nothing wrong with that!
Joan,
ReplyDeleteSome good responses to Mill's radical (if not legally enforceable) document. Although I wish you had analyzed the text more before moving on to your own thoughts on gender equality, I appreciate your experiences and perspective.