Question

Here are some arguments in favour of the right to vote for women. Which of these are consistent with the idea of equality? Give reasons.

Accepted Answer

Arguments (b) and (d) are consistent with the idea of equality. Argument (b) states that since decisions of the government affect women as well as men, they should have a say in choosing the rulers. This is consistent with equality because it recognizes women as equal citizens who deserve the same political rights as men. The context mentions that equal citizenship brings with it basic rights such as the right to vote, and women demanded "the same rights as the men in their society." This argument treats women as equal participants in the political process. Argument (d) argues that women constitute half of humanity and cannot be subjugated by denying them the right to vote. This is consistent with equality because it recognizes women as equal human beings who deserve equal rights. The context shows that women struggled for equal rights in the nineteenth century and demanded rights like voting – "the same rights as the men in their society." Arguments (a) and (c) are NOT consistent with equality. Argument (a) bases voting rights on women's traditional role as mothers, not on equal citizenship. This approach does not treat women as equal individuals but defines them through their relationship to others. Argument (c) argues from family harmony rather than the principle of equal rights. Both fail to recognize women as equal citizens deserving equal rights. The context emphasizes that ending formal systems of inequality and granting equal political and legal rights is "an…

Explanation

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