CSS EXAMINATION-2018:GENDER STUDIES

 

           FEDERAL PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

                                            COMPETITIVE EXAMINATION-2021

                                     GENDER STUDIES

TIME ALLOWED: THREE HOURS PART-I(MCQS): MAXIMUM 30 MINUTES	PART-I (MCQS)         MAXIMUM MARKS = 20 PART-II                                   MAXIMUM MARKS = 80

NOTE: (i) Part II is to be attempted on the separate Answer Book.

(ii)          Attempt ONLY FOUR questions from PART II. ALL questions carry EQUAL marks.

(iii)       All the parts (if any) of each Question must be attempted at one place instead of at different places.

(iv)        Write Q. No. in the Answer Book in accordance with Q. No. in the Q.Paper.

(v)         No Page/Space be left blank between the answers. All the blank pages of the Answer Book must be crossed.

(vi)          Extra attempts of any question or any part of the question will not be considered.

PART – II

FOR BETTER UNDERSTANDING/ASSIMILATION I ATTEMPTED /PREPARED SOME OF THE PREVIOUS PAPERS. SHARE THESE SUBSEQUENTLY FOR THE ASPIRANTS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF INCOMING EXAMINATIONS.

css, css examination 2020, gender studies, gender as a social construct,  gender as a spectrum, gender as an intersectionality, influence of the colonial era, status of women in the subcontinent, positive aspects of the colonial era

education, legal rights, social movements, exposure to western ideas and values, negative aspects of the colonial era, patriarchy, feudalism, religion and culture, challenges and conflicts, identity, modernity, nationalism, 'language is gendered, women need to be in leadership, power and control relationship in gender-based violence, sharmeen obaid chinoy,

 

Q. No. 2.	What are the fundamental differences between Gender Studies and Women's Studies? Substantiate your argument(s) with examples. Highlight the current status of women's studies in Pakistan. (20) A. This is a complex question that requires a comprehensive answer. Here is a possible response: [caption id="attachment_4027" align="aligncenter" width="241"] CSS Examination[/caption] Introduction Gender Studies and Women’s Studies are two related but distinct academic fields that emerged from the feminist movements and social justice struggles of the 20th century. Both fields aim to critically examine the roles, experiences, and representations of different genders in various social, cultural, historical, and political contexts. However, they differ in their scope, focus, and perspectives on gender as a category of analysis and a source of oppression and empowerment. Differences between Gender Studies and Women’s Studies Gender Studies Gender Studies is a broader field that explores the diversity and complexity of gender identities and expressions, beyond the binary of male and female. Gender Studies also analyzes how gender intersects with other factors, such as sexuality, race, class, ethnicity, religion, disability, and age, to shape the lives and opportunities of individuals and groups in society. Gender Studies challenges the naturalization and normalization of gender roles and stereotypes, and exposes the power structures and inequalities that are based on or reinforced by gender differences and hierarchies. Gender Studies draws on various disciplines and theoretical frameworks, such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, history, literature, media, queer theory, postcolonial theory, and critical race theory, to understand and critique the construction and performance of gender across time and space. Women’s Studies Women’s Studies is a more specific and focused field that centers on women and their experiences, contributions and struggles in a patriarchal and male-dominated society. Women’s Studies highlights the diversity and agency of women and challenges the marginalization and oppression of women in various domains, such as politics, economy, education, health, culture, and religion. Women’s Studies advocates for women’s rights and empowerment and promotes feminist values and visions of social change and justice. Women’s Studies uses various feminist theories and methodologies, such as liberal feminism, radical feminism, socialist feminism, black feminism, ecofeminism, and intersectional feminism, to analyze and transform the conditions and relations of women in society. Examples of Gender Studies and Women’s Studies An example of a Gender Studies topic is the representation and impact of transgender and non-binary people in media and popular culture, such as the TV show Transparent or the singer Sam Smith. An example of a Women’s Studies topic is the history and impact of the women’s suffrage movement in different countries, such as the UK, the US, or Pakistan. An example of a topic that can be studied from both Gender Studies and Women’s Studies perspectives is the phenomenon of sexual violence and harassment, such as the MeToo movement or the rape culture. Current status of Women’s Studies in Pakistan Women’s Studies in Pakistan is a relatively young and emerging field that faces many challenges and opportunities in the context of a conservative and patriarchal society. Women’s Studies in Pakistan was initiated in the 1980s by the Women’s Division of the government, which established several centers of Women’s Studies in some universities, such as Quaid-i-Azam University, University of Karachi, and University of Punjab12. Women’s Studies in Pakistan has developed a curriculum and research agenda that addresses the issues and needs of Pakistani women, such as education, health, employment, violence, law, religion, and culture12. Women’s Studies in Pakistan has also contributed to the advocacy and activism of women’s rights and empowerment, and has collaborated with various civil society organizations, such as the Aurat Foundation, Shirkat Gah, and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan12. Women’s Studies in Pakistan faces many obstacles and resistance from the dominant social and religious norms and institutions, which often view it as a Western or anti-Islamic influence that threatens the traditional values and roles of women32. Women’s Studies in Pakistan also suffers from a lack of resources, recognition, and support from the academic and political authorities, which often marginalize or neglect it as a minor or irrelevant field32. Summary Gender Studies and Women’s Studies are two different but related fields that study gender as a social and cultural phenomenon that affects the lives and opportunities of individuals and groups in society. Gender Studies is a broader field that explores the diversity and complexity of gender identities and expressions, and how they intersect with other factors, such as sexuality, race, class, and ethnicity. Women’s Studies is a more specific and focused field that centers on women and their experiences, contributions and struggles in a patriarchal and male-dominated society and advocates for women’s rights and empowerment. Women’s Studies in Pakistan is a relatively young and emerging field that faces many challenges and opportunities in the context of a conservative and patriarchal society and has developed a curriculum and research agenda that addresses the issues and needs of Pakistani women.
Q. No. 3.	Write a comprehensive essay on the ‘sex versus gender debate’ in feminist philosophy and social sciences, reflecting nature versus nurture argument. A. This is a complex question that requires a comprehensive answer. Here is a possible response: Introduction Sex and gender are two related but distinct concepts that are often used interchangeably in everyday language, but have different meanings and implications in feminist philosophy and social sciences. Sex refers to the biological and physiological characteristics that define humans as male or female, such as chromosomes, hormones, genitals, and reproductive organs. Gender refers to the social and cultural attributes and expectations that are associated with being male or female, such as roles, behaviors, expressions, and identities. The sex versus gender debate is a longstanding and ongoing discussion that examines the origins, nature, and consequences of sex and gender differences and inequalities in society. Nature versus Nurture Argument The nature versus nurture argument is a central issue in the sex versus gender debate, as it explores the extent to which sex and gender are determined by biological factors (nature) or by social and environmental factors (nurture). There are two main perspectives on this argument: the essentialist perspective and the constructivist perspective. Essentialist Perspective The essentialist perspective argues that sex and gender are innate and immutable and that they are determined by natural and biological factors, such as genes, hormones, and brain structures. The essentialist perspective claims that sex and gender are closely aligned and that there is a natural and causal link between one’s sex and one’s gender. For example, being born with a male sex implies having a masculine gender, and vice versa. The essentialist perspective also asserts that sex and gender differences are universal and natural and that they explain and justify the different roles, abilities, and preferences of men and women in society. For example, men are naturally more aggressive, rational, and dominant, while women are naturally more nurturing, emotional, and submissive. Constructivist Perspective The constructivist perspective argues that sex and gender are fluid and variable and that they are determined by social and cultural factors, such as norms, values, and institutions. The constructivist perspective challenges the alignment and causality between sex and gender and recognizes the diversity and complexity of gender identities and expressions, beyond the binary of male and female. For example, being born with a male sex does not necessarily imply having a masculine gender, and vice versa. The constructivist perspective also exposes the power structures and inequalities that are based on or reinforced by sex and gender differences, and advocates for the transformation and liberation of gender relations and roles in society. For example, men and women are not naturally different but are socially constructed and oppressed by the patriarchal and heteronormative system. Examples of the Sex versus Gender Debate An example of the sex versus gender debate is the controversy over the participation and performance of female athletes in sports, especially with testosterone levels, muscle mass, and physical strength. An example of the sex versus gender debate is the recognition and rights of transgender and non-binary people, especially to their legal status, medical access, and social acceptance. An example of the sex versus gender debate is the impact and implications of gender stereotypes and biases in various domains, such as education, employment, health, and politics. Summary Sex and gender are two different but related concepts that refer to the biological and physiological characteristics and the social and cultural attributes of being male or female, respectively. The sex versus gender debate is a discussion that examines the origins, nature, and consequences of sex and gender differences and inequalities in society. The nature versus nurture argument is a central issue in the sex versus gender debate, as it explores the extent to which sex and gender are determined by biological factors (nature) or by social and environmental factors (nurture). The two main perspectives on the nature versus nurture argument are the essentialist perspective and the constructivist perspective, which have different views and implications on the relationship, diversity, and transformation of sex and gender.	(20)
Q. No. 4.	What type(s) of feminism can elevate the social-cultural, economic and political status of women in Pakistan? A. There is no definitive answer to this question, as different types of feminism may have different goals, strategies, and challenges in the context of Pakistan. However, some possible types of feminism that can elevate the status of women in Pakistan are: Islamic feminism: This type of feminism seeks to reinterpret and reform Islamic teachings and practices from a feminist perspective, and to challenge the patriarchal and misogynist interpretations of Islam that are often used to justify the oppression and discrimination of women in Pakistan. Islamic feminism also aims to highlight the rights and roles of women in Islam, and to promote a more egalitarian and inclusive vision of Islamic society. Some examples of Islamic feminists in Pakistan are Riffat Hassan, Amina Wadud, and Asma Barlas12. Intersectional feminism: This type of feminism recognizes the diversity and complexity of women’s experiences and identities, and how they are shaped by the intersections of various factors, such as class, caste, ethnicity, religion, sexuality, and disability. Intersectional feminism also exposes the multiple and overlapping forms of oppression and marginalization that women face in Pakistan, and advocates for the inclusion and empowerment of all women, especially those who are most vulnerable and disadvantaged. Some examples of intersectional feminists in Pakistan are Farida Shaheed, Shahnaz Rouse, and Nighat Said Khan3. Ecofeminism: This type of feminism links the exploitation and degradation of nature with the oppression and domination of women, and argues that both are rooted in the same patriarchal and capitalist system that values profit over life. Ecofeminism also proposes alternative ways of living and relating that are more harmonious and respectful of the environment and of women, and that challenge the destructive and unsustainable practices that threaten the survival and well-being of both. Some examples of ecofeminists in Pakistan are Bina Agarwal, Vandana Shiva, and Khawar Mumtaz3.           Islamic feminism is a type of feminism that seeks to reinterpret and reform Islamic teachings and practices from a feminist perspective, and to challenge the patriarchal and misogynist interpretations of Islam that are often used to justify the oppression and discrimination of women in Pakistan1. However, implementing Islamic feminism in Pakistan faces some challenges, such as: Resistance from conservative and extremist groups: Islamic feminism is often met with hostility and backlash from various religious and political groups that view it as a threat to their authority and interests and as a deviation from the true and authentic Islam. These groups may use violence, intimidation, propaganda, and blasphemy accusations to silence and discredit Islamic feminists and their supporters23. Lack of institutional and legal support: Islamic feminism is also hampered by the lack of recognition and support from the state and the legal system, which are often influenced by the dominant and orthodox interpretations of Islam. Islamic feminists may face difficulties in accessing education, health, employment, and justice, and in influencing the policies and laws that affect their rights and well-being34. Diversity and complexity of women’s experiences and identities: Islamic feminism also has to deal with the diversity and complexity of women’s experiences and identities in Pakistan, which are shaped by various factors, such as class, caste, ethnicity, region, and sect. Islamic feminism has to be inclusive and responsive to the different needs and concerns of women from different backgrounds and situations, and to avoid imposing a monolithic or homogenous view of Islam and feminism3 . Summary Different types of feminism can elevate the status of women in Pakistan, such as Islamic feminism, intersectional feminism, and ecofeminism. These types of feminism seek to reinterpret and reform Islamic teachings and practices from a feminist perspective, recognize the diversity and complexity of women’s experiences and identities, and link the exploitation and degradation of nature with the oppression and domination of women. Islamic feminism faces some challenges in Pakistan, such as resistance from conservative and extremist groups, lack of institutional and legal support, and diversity and complexity of women’s experiences and identities. These challenges make it difficult for Islamic feminists to access their rights and well-being, and to influence the policies and laws that affect them.	(20)
Q. No. 5.	What are the reasons responsible for ranking Pakistan as the second-worst country in the world for gender inequality despite Pakistan's commitment to many international conventions and strong commitment to gender equality in the 1973 constitution? A. Introduction Pakistan is ranked as the second-worst country in the world for gender inequality, according to the Global Gender Gap Index 20221. This means that Pakistan has a large gap between men and women in terms of economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment. This is despite Pakistan’s commitment to many international conventions and treaties on gender equality and women’s rights, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the Beijing Platform for Action, and the Sustainable Development Goals23. Moreover, Pakistan’s 1973 constitution also guarantees gender equality and prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex alone45. Reasons for Gender Inequality in Pakistan There are many reasons for the persistence and prevalence of gender inequality in Pakistan, which can be categorized into four main areas: social, cultural, economic, and political. Social Reasons Pakistan has a patriarchal and conservative society, where women are often viewed as subordinate and dependent on men, and where men are considered as the dominant and authoritative figures in the family and the society67. Pakistan has a high prevalence of violence against women and girls, such as domestic abuse, honor killings, acid attacks, rape, sexual harassment, and child marriage, which violate their human rights and dignity, and limit their freedom and mobility67. Pakistan has a low literacy rate and a high dropout rate for women and girls, especially in rural areas, due to factors such as poverty, lack of access and quality of education, early marriage and pregnancy, and social and cultural norms that discourage female education678. Cultural Reasons Pakistan has a diverse and complex culture, where different ethnic, religious, and sectarian groups have their own traditions, values, and practices, some of which are discriminatory and oppressive towards women and girls67. Pakistan has a strong influence of religion, especially Islam, on its laws, policies, and social norms, which are often interpreted and implemented in a rigid and conservative manner, and which are sometimes used to justify and legitimize the subordination and marginalization of women and girls67. Pakistan has a deep-rooted system of patriarchy, feudalism, and tribalism, which reinforce the gender roles and stereotypes, and which create power structures and inequalities that favor men over women in all spheres of life67. Economic Reasons Pakistan has a low level of economic participation and opportunity for women, especially in the formal sector, due to factors such as lack of skills, education, and training, discrimination and harassment in the workplace, and unequal pay and benefits678. Pakistan has a high level of poverty and unemployment among women, especially in rural areas, due to factors such as lack of access and control over resources, assets, and services, and lack of social protection and safety nets678. Pakistan has a high burden of unpaid and domestic work on women, especially in the informal sector, due to factors such as the division of labor, the care economy, and the reproductive roles of women, which are often undervalued and unrecognized678. Political Reasons Pakistan has a low level of political empowerment and representation for women, especially in the decision-making and leadership positions, due to factors such as lack of political awareness, education, and participation, discrimination and intimidation in the political arena, and underutilization of the quota system and the reserved seats for women678. Pakistan has a weak and inconsistent implementation and enforcement of the laws, policies, and mechanisms that are meant to protect and promote the rights and interests of women, due to factors such as lack of political will, commitment, and accountability, corruption and nepotism, and interference and influence of the religious and traditional authorities678. Pakistan has a limited and ineffective monitoring and evaluation of the progress and challenges of gender equality and women’s empowerment, due to factors such as lack of data, information, and analysis, lack of coordination and collaboration among the stakeholders, and lack of feedback and feedback mechanisms678. Summary The question was about the reasons for ranking Pakistan as the second-worst country in the world for gender inequality, despite its commitment to many international conventions and its constitution on gender equality. The answer explained that there are many social, cultural, economic, and political reasons for the persistence and prevalence of gender inequality in Pakistan, which affects the lives and opportunities of women and girls in various aspects, such as health, education, employment, and political participation. The answer also provided some examples of the factors that contribute to the gender gap in Pakistan, such as violence, discrimination, poverty, religion, patriarchy, and weak governance.	(20)
Q. No. 6.	In the last two decades, globalization has had a huge impact on the lives of women in developing nations, including Pakistan. What are the impacts of global political economy on Pakistani women? A. Globalization is the process of increasing integration and interdependence of the world in terms of trade, investment, communication, culture, and politics. Globalization has had both positive and negative impacts on the lives of women in developing nations, including Pakistan. Here are some of the impacts of the global political economy on Pakistani women: Positive impacts: Globalization has created new opportunities and challenges for women in terms of education, employment, entrepreneurship, and empowerment. Women have gained access to more information, skills, markets, and resources, and have contributed to the economic growth and development of their country12. Globalization has also exposed women to different ideas, values, and practices, and has encouraged them to challenge the traditional and patriarchal norms and structures that limit their rights and freedoms. Women have also benefited from the support and solidarity of various international and local organizations that advocate for gender equality and women’s rights12. Globalization has also increased the awareness and recognition of the diversity and complexity of women’s experiences and identities and has highlighted the intersections of gender with other factors, such as class, caste, ethnicity, religion, and region. Women have also expressed their agency and voice in various social, cultural, and political domains12. Negative impacts: Globalization has also increased the vulnerability and exploitation of women, especially in the informal and unregulated sectors, such as agriculture, domestic work, and sex work. Women face low wages, poor working conditions, discrimination, harassment, and violence, and have limited access to social protection and legal recourse123. Globalization has also intensified the inequalities and conflicts between men and women, and among different groups of women, based on their economic, social, and cultural status. Women also face resistance and backlash from the conservative and extremist forces that view globalization as a threat to their authority and interests, and as a deviation from the authentic and traditional values and roles of women123. Globalization has also created new pressures and expectations for women, who have to balance their multiple and conflicting roles and responsibilities, both in the public and private spheres. Women also face the risks and costs of migration, displacement, and environmental degradation, which affect their health and well-being123. Summary Globalization has had both positive and negative impacts on Pakistani women, in terms of their economic, social, cultural, and political opportunities and challenges. The answer also provided some examples of the factors that influence the impacts of globalization on Pakistani women, such as education, employment, empowerment, violence, inequality, and diversity.	(20)
Q. No. 7	Believing in the statement that “women cover half the sky”, do you think we need equal number of women in all spheres of public domain, especially in politics? A. I think that having an equal number of women in all spheres of public domain, especially in politics, is desirable and beneficial for several reasons: It is a matter of justice and human rights, as women constitute half of the population and should have equal access and opportunity to participate in the decision-making and governance of their society12. It is a matter of democracy and representation, as women can bring diverse and valuable experiences, perspectives, and voices to the public domain, and can better reflect and respond to the needs and interests of their constituents, especially women and girls12. It is a matter of development and peace, as women can contribute to the economic, social, and cultural progress and well-being of their society, and can play a positive and constructive role in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and violence12. However, I also recognize that having an equal number of women in all spheres of public domain, especially in politics, is not easy and simple, as some many barriers and challenges prevent and limit women’s participation and leadership, such as: Social and cultural norms and stereotypes that view women as inferior and subordinate to men, and that assign them to the domestic and reproductive roles, while excluding them from the public and productive roles345. Violence and discrimination against women in the public domain, such as harassment, intimidation, threats, and attacks, which violate their rights and dignity, and deter them from engaging in political and civic activities345. Lack of resources and support for women in the public domain, such as education, training, mentoring, networking, funding, and media, which hinder their skills, confidence, and visibility, and reduce their chances of success and recognition345. Therefore, I think that having equal number of women in all spheres of public domain, especially in politics, requires not only numerical parity, but also substantive equality, which means that women have equal power, influence, and respect as men, and that their rights and interests are protected and promoted in the public domain12. This requires a comprehensive and holistic approach that addresses the structural and systemic causes of gender inequality, and that involves the collaboration and commitment of all stakeholders, such as the state, the civil society, the media, the religious and traditional authorities, and the men and women themselves345. summary: The question was about the need for an equal number of women in all spheres of public domain, especially in politics, based on the statement that “women cover half the sky”. The answer explained that having an equal number of women in the public domain is desirable and beneficial for justice, democracy, development, and peace, as women can bring diverse and valuable experiences, perspectives, and voices to society. The answer also recognized that having an equal number of women in the public domain is not easy and simple, as many barriers and challenges prevent and limit women’s participation and leadership, such as social and cultural norms, violence and discrimination, lack of resources and support, and weak governance. The answer also suggested that having an equal number of women in the public domain requires not only numerical parity, but also substantive equality, which means that women have equal power, influence, and respect as men and that their rights and interests are protected and promoted in the public domain. This requires a comprehensive and holistic approach that addresses the structural and systemic causes of gender inequality, and that involves the collaboration and commitment of all stakeholders.	(20)
Q. No. 8.	Write short notes on any TWO of the followings:                (10 each) (a)            ‘Gender Strategic Needs’ and ‘Gender Practical Needs’ (b)           APWA and WAF (c)            Government Initiative for combating the menace of violence against women A .(a) ‘Gender Strategic Needs’ and ‘Gender Practical Needs’ are two types of needs that women and men have to their gender roles and status in society. Gender Strategic Needs are the needs that aim to improve the position or status of women and men, and to challenge the existing gender inequalities and power structures. For example, women’s strategic needs may include legal rights, political participation, and decision-making power. Gender Practical Needs are the needs that arise from the actual conditions that women and men experience because of their gender roles, and that do not challenge the existing gender relations. For example, women’s practical needs may include access to water, health, education, and income1. (b) APWA and WAF are two women’s organizations in Pakistan that have been active in promoting women’s rights and empowerment. APWA stands for All Pakistan Women’s Association, which was founded in 1949 as a non-political and non-governmental organization. APWA’s main aim is to secure the moral, social, and economic welfare of women and children in Pakistan. APWA has established various institutions and projects, such as schools, colleges, hospitals, vocational centers, and legal aid cells, to provide education, health, employment, and legal services to women and children2. WAF stands for Women’s Action Forum, which was formed in 1981 as a network of women’s groups and activists. WAF’s main aim is to resist the oppression and discrimination of women in Pakistan, especially under the military dictatorship and the Islamization policies. WAF has organized various campaigns and protests, such as against the Hudood Ordinances, the Qisas and Diyat laws, and the Zina Ordinance, to challenge the laws and policies that violate women’s rights and dignity3. © Government Initiative for combating the menace of violence against women in Pakistan is a broad term that refers to the various laws, policies, and programs that the government of Pakistan has adopted and implemented to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls. Some examples of these initiatives are: The National Commission on the Status of Women, which was established in 2000 as an independent statutory body to monitor and review the laws and policies that affect women’s rights and status, and to recommend measures to eliminate discrimination and violence against women4. The Protection of Women (Criminal Laws Amendment) Act, 2006, amended the Hudood Ordinances and the Pakistan Penal Code, removed the offenses of rape and adultery from Islamic law, and made them punishable under secular law. The Act also provided for the right of bail and the right of appeal for women accused of adultery, and increased the punishment for rape and honour killings5. The Prevention of Anti-Women Practices (Criminal Law Amendment) Act, 2011, which criminalized the practices of forced marriage, marriage with the Quran, and depriving women of inheritance, and prescribed imprisonment and fine for the offenders5. The Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2012, which defined domestic violence as a punishable offence, and provided for the protection, relief, and compensation of the victims, and the establishment of protection committees and protection officers to assist the victims5. The National Plan of Action on Human Rights, 2016, which included a specific chapter on women’s rights, and outlined the objectives, strategies, and actions to address the issues of violence against women, such as awareness raising, capacity building, service provision, legal reform, and data collection6.

CSS EXAMINATION-2021 - GENDER STUDIES

              FEDERAL PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

COMPETITIVE EXAMINATION-2021

                                        GENDER STUDIES

 

 

TIME ALLOWED: THREE HOURS PART-I(MCQS): MAXIMUM 30 MINUTES

PART-I (MCQS)        MAXIMUM MARKS = 20 PART-II                           MAXIMUM MARKS = 80

NOTE: (i) Part-II is to be attempted on the separate Answer Book. (ii)          Attempt ONLY FOUR questions from PART-II. ALL questions carry EQUAL marks. (iii)       All the parts (if any) of each Question must be attempted at one place instead of at different     places. (iv)        Write Q. No. in the Answer Book in accordance with Q. No. in the Q.Paper. (v)         No Page/Space be left blank between the answers. All the blank pages of Answer Book must be crossed. (vi)          Extra attempt of any question or any part of the question will not be considered.

 

PART-I1

Q. No. 2.   Discuss in detail what the autonomy and integration debate in gender studies have important

contributions to the development of the field of knowledge. (20)

A. The autonomy and integration debate in gender studies is a debate on whether gender studies should be an independent and separate field of study, or whether it should be integrated and incorporated into other disciplines and subjects. The debate has been ongoing since the 1980s and has implications for the development of the field of knowledge.

Some of the arguments for the autonomy of gender studies are:

• Autonomy allows gender studies to maintain its critical and feminist perspective, and to challenge and transform the dominant and patriarchal paradigms and structures of knowledge production.
• Autonomy enables gender studies to generate new and innovative knowledge, through the interaction and collaboration of scholars who share a common vision and mission.
• Autonomy protects gender studies from the pressures and constraints of mainstream academia, which may marginalize, dilute, or co-opt its agenda and achievements.

Some of the arguments for the integration of gender studies are:

• Integration allows gender studies to reach and influence a wider and more diverse audience, and to disseminate and apply its knowledge to various fields and sectors of society.
• Integration enables gender studies to benefit from the resources and opportunities of other disciplines and subjects and to enrich and enhance its methods and theories.
• Integration fosters gender studies to engage and cooperate with other actors and stakeholders, and to create dialogue and synergy for social change and justice.

Summary:

• The autonomy and integration debate in gender studies is a debate on whether gender studies should be an independent and separate field of study, or whether it should be integrated and incorporated into other disciplines and subjects.
• The debate has pros and cons for both sides and has implications for the development of the field of knowledge.
• The debate reflects the diversity and dynamism of gender studies and the challenges and opportunities it faces in the academic and social context.

 Q. No. 3. Masculinity and femininity have the deeply engraved realities since the distant past in human history. Discuss various theoretical debates on the construction of masculinity and femininity to make it explicit that the formation of both is either natural or social reality. Support your arguments with real-life examples. (20)

A. Masculinity and femininity are the concepts and practices that define and differentiate men and women in a given society. There are various theoretical debates on whether masculinity and femininity are natural or social realities, that is, whether they are determined by biological factors or by cultural factors. Here are some of the main perspectives on this debate:

• Essentialism: This perspective argues that masculinity and femininity are natural realities, that is, they are based on the innate and immutable characteristics of men and women, such as their hormones, genes, and brain structures. Essentialism claims that there are universal and fixed traits that distinguish men and women, such as aggression, rationality, and competitiveness for men, and nurturance, emotionality, and cooperation for women. Essentialism supports the idea that gender roles and relations are natural and inevitable and that any deviation from them is abnormal or unnatural. An example of essentialism is the evolutionary psychology approach, which explains gender differences in terms of the adaptation and survival of the human species¹.
• Social constructionism: This perspective argues that masculinity and femininity are social realities, that is, they are based on the historical and cultural contexts and processes that shape and change the meanings and practices of gender. Social constructionism claims that there are no inherent or fixed traits that define men and women, but rather that gender is a dynamic and fluid phenomenon that is influenced by various factors, such as class, race, ethnicity, religion, age, and sexuality. Social constructionism supports the idea that gender roles and relations are socially constructed and contested and that any variation from them is possible and legitimate. An example of social constructionism is the feminist approach, which challenges and transforms the patriarchal and sexist norms and values that subordinate and oppress women².
• Interactionism: This perspective argues that masculinity and femininity are both natural and social realities, that is, they are based on the interplay of biological and cultural factors that influence and shape the individual and collective experiences and expressions of gender. Interactionism claims that there are some biological and psychological differences between men and women, but that these differences are not fixed or deterministic, but rather that they are modified and mediated by the social and situational contexts and interactions. Interactionism supports the idea that gender roles and relations are not static or homogeneous, but rather that they are flexible and diverse, and that they depend on the agency and negotiation of the actors involved. An example of interactionism is the symbolic interactionism approach, which analyzes how gender identities and performances are created and maintained through the use of symbols, language, and communication³.

Summary:

• Masculinity and femininity are the concepts and practices that define and differentiate men and women in a given society.
• There are various theoretical debates on whether masculinity and femininity are natural or social realities, that is, whether they are determined by biological factors or by cultural factors.
• Some of the main perspectives on this debate are essentialism, social constructionism, and interactionism, which have different assumptions and implications for the understanding and explanation of gender differences and similarities.

 Q. No. 4. Marxist feminism is a philosophical variant of feminism that incorporates and extends Marxist theory and analyzes the ways in which women are exploited through capitalism and the individual ownership of private property. Discuss the development of Marxist/Socialist feminism and the philosophical stance they hold to discuss gender issues and exploitation.(20)

A. Marxist feminism is a branch of feminist theory that applies the Marxist critique of capitalism to the analysis of gender oppression and exploitation. Marxist feminism argues that the main cause of women’s subordination and suffering is the capitalist system, which exploits women’s labor, both paid and unpaid, and reproduces patriarchal and sexist ideologies and practices. Marxist feminism also proposes that the liberation of women can only be achieved by overthrowing the capitalist system and creating a socialist society, where women and men are equal in all aspects of life.

The development of Marxist/Socialist feminism can be traced back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, when some of the early socialist and communist thinkers and activists, such as Friedrich Engels, Clara Zetkin, Rosa Luxemburg, and Alexandra Kollontai, addressed the question of women’s oppression and emancipation to the class struggle and the socialist revolution. They argued that women’s oppression was not a natural or eternal condition, but a historical and social phenomenon, that was linked to the emergence and development of private property, class society, and capitalism. They also argued that women’s emancipation was not a separate or secondary issue, but an integral and essential part of the socialist movement and the proletarian revolution. They advocated for the abolition of the patriarchal family, the socialization of domestic labor, the expansion of women’s rights and opportunities, and the participation of women in the political and economic spheres.

However, Marxist/Socialist feminism did not become a distinct and influential branch of feminist theory until the 1960s and 1970s, when a new wave of feminist movements and scholars emerged, inspired and influenced by the civil rights, anti-war, and anti-colonial struggles, as well as by the revival and revision of Marxist theory and practice. These feminist movements and scholars criticized mainstream liberal feminism, which they considered to be reformist, individualist, and bourgeois, and orthodox Marxism, which they considered to be economistic, deterministic, and androcentric. They developed a more complex and nuanced analysis of the interrelation and intersection of gender, class, race, and other forms of oppression and domination, and the dialectical and historical nature of women’s oppression and resistance. They also explored a variety of topics and issues, such as the sexual division of labor, the value of domestic labor, the reproduction of labor power, the sexual politics of work, the state, the family, and the culture, the global and racial dimensions of women’s exploitation, and the strategies and forms of women’s liberation and solidarity.

Some of the prominent and influential Marxist/Socialist feminist thinkers and activists of this period include Simone de Beauvoir, Juliet Mitchell, Sheila Rowbotham, Mariarosa Dalla Costa, Selma James, Heidi Hartmann, Zillah Eisenstein, Angela Davis, Bell Hooks, and Nancy Fraser. They contributed to the development and diversification of Marxist/Socialist feminism, as well as to the dialogue and debate with other branches and currents of feminist theory, such as radical feminism, psychoanalytic feminism, postmodern feminism, and ecofeminism.

Summary:

• Marxist feminism is a branch of feminist theory that applies the Marxist critique of capitalism to the analysis of gender oppression and exploitation.
• Marxist feminism argues that the main cause of women’s subordination and suffering is the capitalist system, which exploits women’s labor, both paid and unpaid, and reproduces patriarchal and sexist ideologies and practices.
• Marxist feminism also proposes that the liberation of women can only be achieved by overthrowing the capitalist system and creating a socialist society, where women and men are equal in all aspects of life.
• The development of Marxist/Socialist feminism can be traced back to the 19th and early 20th centuries when some of the early socialist and communist thinkers and activists addressed the question of women’s oppression and emancipation in relation to the class struggle and the socialist revolution.
• The development of Marxist/Socialist feminism also continued in the 1960s and 1970s, when a new wave of feminist movements and scholars emerged, inspired and influenced by the civil rights, anti-war, and anti-colonial struggles, as well as by the revival and revision of Marxist theory and practice.
• The development of Marxist/Socialist feminism also involved a more complex and nuanced analysis of the interrelation and intersection of gender, class, race, and other forms of oppression and domination, and the dialectical and historical nature of women’s oppression and resistance.
• The development of Marxist/Socialist feminism also involved a variety of topics and issues, such as the sexual division of labor, the value of domestic labor, the reproduction of labor power, the sexual politics of work, the state, the family, and the culture, the global and racial dimensions of women’s exploitation, and the strategies and forms of women’s liberation and solidarity.

 Q. No. 5. Psychoanalytic feminism is a theory of oppression, which asserts that men have an inherent psychological need to subjugate women. As elaborated, give a detailed analysis of the gender oppression and women’s subordination promulgated by Psychoanalytic Feminism. (20)

A. Psychoanalytic feminism is a branch of feminist theory that applies the insights and methods of psychoanalysis to the analysis of gender oppression and women’s subordination. Psychoanalytic feminism argues that men have an inherent psychological need to subjugate women, because of their unresolved childhood conflicts and unconscious desires, which are shaped by the patriarchal and sexist culture and society. Psychoanalytic feminism also explores the ways that women internalize and resist their oppression, and the possibilities of their liberation and empowerment.

According to psychoanalytic feminism, men’s need to subjugate women stems from their experience of the Oedipus complex, which is a stage of psychosexual development in which the male child develops a sexual attraction to his mother and a rivalry with his father. The male child fears that his father will castrate him as a punishment for his incestuous desire, and thus represses his feelings and identifies with his father. However, this identification is never complete or secure, and the male child remains haunted by the threat of castration and the loss of his mother. To cope with this anxiety, the male child projects his fear and hatred onto women, whom he perceives as castrated and inferior, and seeks to dominate and control them, either through violence or through love. The male child also develops a narcissistic and phallocentric ego, which values his own masculinity and power over everything else, and denies his dependence and vulnerability.

According to psychoanalytic feminism, women’s subordination to men stems from their experience of the Electra complex, which is a stage of psychosexual development in which the female child develops a sexual attraction to her father and a rivalry with her mother. The female child realizes that she lacks a penis, and thus feels inferior and envious of her father. She also blames her mother for her castration and resents her for her lack of power and authority. The female child desires to have a penis, either literally or symbolically, and thus represses her feelings and identifies with her father. However, this identification is also never complete or secure, and the female child remains dissatisfied and frustrated by her lack of a penis and her dependence on men. To cope with this discontent, the female child internalizes the patriarchal and sexist norms and values, which define her as passive, submissive, and nurturing, and seeks to please and serve men, either through motherhood or through sexuality. The female child also develops a masochistic and dependent ego, which devalues her own femininity and autonomy and accepts her oppression and exploitation.

Psychoanalytic feminism also examines the ways that women resist and challenge their oppression and the possibilities of their liberation and empowerment. Some of the strategies and solutions proposed by psychoanalytic feminists are:

• Revising and reinterpreting the psychoanalytic theory and practice, to make it more inclusive, diverse, and feminist, and to expose and critique the patriarchal and sexist biases and assumptions of classical psychoanalysis.
• Exploring and affirming female sexuality and subjectivity, reclaiming and celebrating the female body, desire, and pleasure, and resisting and subverting the male domination and objectification of women.
• Developing and fostering female solidarity and agency, creating and supporting female networks, communities, and movements, and empowering and mobilizing women to act and speak for themselves and for others.
• Transforming and transcending the gender roles and relations, to challenge and change the patriarchal and sexist culture and society, and creating a more egalitarian and democratic world, where women and men are equal and free.

Summary:

• Psychoanalytic feminism is a branch of feminist theory that applies the insights and methods of psychoanalysis to the analysis of gender oppression and women’s subordination.
• Psychoanalytic feminism argues that men have an inherent psychological need to subjugate women, because of their unresolved childhood conflicts and unconscious desires, which are shaped by the patriarchal and sexist culture and society.
• Psychoanalytic feminism also explores the ways that women internalize and resist their oppression, and the possibilities of their liberation and empowerment.
• Psychoanalytic feminism proposes some strategies and solutions, such as revising and reinterpreting the psychoanalytic theory and practice, exploring and affirming female sexuality and subjectivity, developing and fostering female solidarity and agency, and transforming and transcending gender roles and relations.

 Q. No. 6. Modernization Theory blames internal cultural factors for women’s subordination in the developing world. Discuss and elaborate on the given statement with respect to Modernization Perspectives. (20)

A. Modernization Theory is a perspective that explains the process of social and economic development in terms of the transition from traditional to modern societies. Modernization Theory assumes that modern societies are more advanced, rational, and progressive than traditional societies and that the latter should follow the path of the former to achieve development. Modernization Theory also assumes that there is a universal and linear model of development, based on the Western experience, that can be applied to all societies¹.

Modernization Theory blames internal cultural factors for women’s subordination in the developing world because it considers traditional cultures to be the main obstacle to development and modernization. Modernization Theory argues that traditional cultures are characterized by irrationality, superstition, fatalism, collectivism, and patriarchy, which hinder the growth of productivity, innovation, democracy, and individualism. Modernization Theory also argues that traditional cultures assign rigid and unequal gender roles and norms, which confine women to the domestic sphere, limit their education and employment opportunities, and subject them to male domination and violence².

Modernization Theory suggests that the solution to women’s subordination in the developing world is to adopt the modern culture and values of the West, which are assumed to be more conducive to development and gender equality. Modernization Theory proposes that the processes of urbanization, industrialization, secularization, and democratization will bring about social and cultural changes that will improve the status and role of women in the developing world. Modernization Theory expects that these changes will include the expansion of women’s rights and freedoms, the increase of women’s participation and representation in the public sphere, the reduction of women’s fertility and dependency, and the emergence of a nuclear and egalitarian family structure³.

Summary:

• Modernization Theory is a perspective that explains the process of social and economic development in terms of the transition from traditional to modern societies, based on the Western model.
• Modernization Theory blames internal cultural factors for women’s subordination in the developing world, because it considers traditional cultures to be the main obstacle to development and modernization, and to assign rigid and unequal gender roles and norms to women.
• Modernization Theory suggests that the solution to women’s subordination in the developing world is to adopt the modern culture and values of the West, which are assumed to be more conducive to development and gender equality and to undergo the processes of urbanization, industrialization, secularization, and democratization.

 Q. No. 7. Critically analyze the various approaches to women’s development focusing on Women in Development (WID), Women and Development (WAD), and Gender and Development (GAD).

A. Women’s development is a term that refers to the improvement of the status, role, and well-being of women in society, especially in relation to men. There are various approaches to women’s development, which have different assumptions, goals, and strategies. Three of the most prominent approaches are Women in Development (WID), Women and Development (WAD), and Gender and Development (GAD).

• Women in Development (WID): This approach emerged in the early 1970s, influenced by the liberal feminist movement and modernization theory. WID argues that women are excluded or marginalized from the development process and that their inclusion and integration are necessary for achieving economic growth and social progress. WID aims to increase women’s access and opportunities in education, employment, health, and political participation, and to reduce the gender gap in these areas. WID adopts a reformist and additive strategy, which means that it seeks to improve the existing system and policies, and to add women to the development agenda, without challenging the underlying structures and causes of gender inequality¹².
• Women and Development (WAD): This approach emerged in the late 1970s, influenced by the Marxist feminist movement and the dependency theory. WAD argues that women are exploited and oppressed by the capitalist and patriarchal system and that their subordination is linked to the underdevelopment and dependency of the Third World. WAD aims to expose and challenge the structural and systemic factors that generate and maintain women’s poverty and marginalization, and to promote women’s collective and alternative forms of development, such as cooperatives, grassroots organizations, and self-reliance. WAD adopts a radical and transformative strategy, which means that it seeks to change the existing system and policies, and to create a new development paradigm, based on the principles of equality, justice, and liberation³ .
• Gender and Development (GAD): This approach emerged in the mid-1980s, influenced by the socialist feminist movement and the post-structuralism theory. GAD argues that gender is a social construct that shapes and is shaped by the development process and that gender relations are dynamic and context-specific. GAD aims to analyze and address the gender issues and needs that arise in different development contexts and sectors, and to empower women and men to participate and benefit equally from the development outcomes. GAD adopts a holistic and strategic strategy, which means that it seeks to integrate gender analysis and mainstreaming into all aspects and levels of development planning and implementation and to achieve gender equality and transformation as the ultimate goal of development.

Summary:

• Women’s development is a term that refers to the improvement of the status, role, and well-being of women in society, especially in relation to men.
• There are various approaches to women’s development, which have different assumptions, goals, and strategies.
• Three of the most prominent approaches are Women in Development (WID), Women and Development (WAD), and Gender and Development (GAD).
• WID focuses on the inclusion and integration of women into the development process and adopts a reformist and additive strategy.
• WAD focuses on the exploitation and oppression of women by the capitalist and patriarchal system and adopts a radical and transformative strategy.
• GAD focuses on the social construction and dynamics of gender relations in the development process and adopts a holistic and strategic strategy.

Q. No. 8. Despite the entry of women legislators into politics on a 17 percent quota in national and provincial assemblies, still there are voices that “Is Pakistan’s Gender Quota in Parliament showing results?” Rethink and discuss how quotas can lead to the political mainstreaming of women in Pakistan. (20)

A.  The question of whether Pakistan’s gender quota in parliament is showing results is a complex and contested one that depends on how one defines and measures the impact and effectiveness of quotas. Quotas are affirmative action measures that aim to increase the representation and participation of women in politics, by reserving a certain percentage or number of seats for them in the legislative bodies. Pakistan has adopted a 17 percent quota for women in the national and provincial assemblies since 2002, which has resulted in the increase of women legislators from 2 percent to 21 percent in the National Assembly, and from 1 percent to 18 percent in the provincial assemblies¹.

Quotas can lead to political mainstreaming of women in Pakistan, by creating and enhancing the opportunities and capacities of women to influence and shape the political agenda and outcomes, and to promote and protect the rights and interests of women and other marginalized groups in the society. Quotas can also lead to political mainstreaming of women in Pakistan, by challenging and changing the patriarchal and sexist norms and values that exclude and discriminate against women in politics, and by fostering and facilitating gender equality and empowerment in the political sphere.

However, quotas alone are not sufficient or guarantee for political mainstreaming of women in Pakistan, as there are various challenges and constraints that limit and undermine the potential and performance of women legislators, such as:

• The selection and nomination process of women candidates, which is often controlled and manipulated by the male-dominated political parties and leaders, and which may result in the selection of women who are loyal, dependent, or related to the male politicians, rather than women who are qualified, independent, or representative of the women’s movement².
• The political and institutional environment of the parliament, which is often hostile and unfriendly to women legislators, and which may subject them to harassment, intimidation, or marginalization by their male colleagues, as well as to the lack of resources, support, or recognition by the parliamentary staff, committees, or media³.
• The social and cultural expectations and pressures of the society, which are often conservative and traditional towards women’s role and status, and which may impose or reinforce the stereotypes, prejudices, or biases against women in politics, as well as the multiple and conflicting demands and responsibilities of women as legislators, wives, mothers, and daughters.

Therefore, quotas are necessary but not sufficient for political mainstreaming of women in Pakistan, and they need to be complemented and supported by other measures and strategies, such as:

• Reforming and strengthening the political parties and electoral system, to ensure the fair and transparent selection and nomination of women candidates, and to provide them with adequate training, funding, and campaigning assistance.
• Improving and empowering the parliamentary procedures and practices, to ensure the equal and effective participation and representation of women legislators, and to provide them with sufficient resources, support, and recognition.
• Raising and sensitizing public awareness and opinion, to ensure a positive and respectful attitude and behavior towards women in politics, and to reduce the stereotypes, prejudices, or biases against them.

Summary:

• The question of whether Pakistan’s gender quota in parliament is showing results is a complex and contested one, that depends on how one defines and measures the impact and effectiveness of quotas.
• Quotas are affirmative action measures that aim to increase the representation and participation of women in politics, by reserving a certain percentage or number of seats for them in the legislative bodies.
• Quotas can lead to political mainstreaming of women in Pakistan, by creating and enhancing the opportunities and capacities of women to influence and shape the political agenda and outcomes, and by challenging and changing the patriarchal and sexist norms and values that exclude and discriminate against women in politics.
• However, quotas alone are not sufficient or guarantee for political mainstreaming of women in Pakistan, as there are various challenges and constraints that limit and undermine the potential and performance of women legislators, such as the selection and nomination process, the political and institutional environment, and the social and cultural expectations and pressures.
• Therefore, quotas need to be complemented and supported by other measures and strategies, such as reforming and strengthening the political parties and electoral system, improving and empowering the parliamentary procedures and practices, and raising and sensitizing public awareness and opinion.