Feminism Quote by Andrea Dworkin
““Male supremacy is fused into the language, so that every sentence both heralds and affirms it. Thought, experienced primarily as language, is permeated by the linguistic and perceptual values developed expressly to subordinate women. Men have defined the parameters of every subject. All feminist arguments, however radical in intent or consequence, are with or against assertions or premises implicit in the male system, which is made credible or authentic by the power of men to name. No transcendence of the male system is possible as long as men have the power of naming... As Prometheus stole fire from the gods, so feminists will have to steal the power of naming from men, hopefully to better effect.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Power of Naming”, 1990s feminist critique
Language embeds male dominance; reclaiming naming power is essential for feminist liberation.
In simple terms: Language favors men; feminists must rename.
Key Takeaway
Seize naming power to challenge patriarchy.
Themes
feminism
language
power
gender
social critique
Mood
critical
provocative
Type
theoretical
political
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- media analysis
- political activism
- education curricula
Key Concepts
naming
hegemony
subordination
reappropriation
Questions to Reflect On
- What strategies beyond language can dismantle patriarchy?
- How does naming influence perception?
A Different Perspective
Changing language alone may not alter entrenched structures.
