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Choices Quote by Betty Friedan

“Feminism or the family? Carried to excess maybe. I have insisted that women cannot be defined solely in those terms. But for a great many women - not all, because we are only beginning to realize and affirm the diversity of women themselves - choosing motherhood makes motherhood itself a…” quote by Betty Friedan
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“Feminism or the family? Carried to excess maybe. I have insisted that women cannot be defined solely in those terms. But for a great many women - not all, because we are only beginning to realize and affirm the diversity of women themselves - choosing motherhood makes motherhood itself a liberating choice.”

Betty Friedan

About This Quote

Source Book: The Feminine Mystique, 1963

Motherhood can be a liberating choice when women define themselves beyond traditional roles, acknowledging diverse identities.

In simple terms: Women can find freedom in motherhood if they define themselves broadly.

Key Takeaway

Embrace diverse definitions of womanhood.

Themes

feminism identity choice

Mood

thoughtful empowering

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • career decisions
  • parenting
  • social expectations

Key Concepts

self‑definition empowerment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines liberation for you?
  • How can society support varied female identities?
A Different Perspective

Not all women view motherhood as liberating; cultural pressures vary.

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