Since the women are the ones who bear the babies, and…
“Since the women are the ones who bear the babies, and there's nothing we can do about that, our laws and customs then make it the financial obligation of the husband to provide the support. It is his obligation and his sole obligation. And this is exactly and precisely what we will lose if the Equal Rights Amendment is passed.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Schlafly argues that because women bear children, the law obliges husbands to financially support them; she claims the Equal Rights Amendment would erase this duty.
In simple terms: She links child‑bearing to a husband's financial duty, fearing ERA loss.
Key Takeaway
Legal definitions of gender roles are contested.
Themes
gender roles
family law
political rhetoric
equal rights
Mood
defensive
assertive
Type
political argument
social commentary
When to use this quote
- a legislative debate on family law
- a community forum on gender equity
- a classroom discussion on constitutional amendments
Key Concepts
social contract theory
feminist critique
Practical Applications
- explain how laws assign responsibilities
- challenge assumptions with data on modern family economics
Questions to Reflect On
- What legal bases support gender‑specific obligations?
- How might the ERA affect family financial dynamics?
A Different Perspective
Her premise assumes biological determinism and ignores evolving social norms and shared financial responsibilities.