IV ISA Forum of Sociology (February 23-28, 2021)

JS-39

Culture, Religion, and Gender Inequality

Abstract Submissions Closed

RC32 Women, Gender and Society (host committee)
RC22 Sociology of Religion

Language: English

Session Type: Oral

Gender inequality is one of the most prevalent forms of inequality across the globe. Among many factors associated with gender inequality and women’s experience of oppression and victimization are culture and religion, which are powerful institutions within society that play a major role in shaping gender relations and perpetuating gender inequality. Cultural traditions, practices, and values, as well as religious norms and customs, have significant impacts on the formation of the perception of women in society, their social status, and women’s experience overall. Religious texts and cultural traditions are interpreted to justify gender discrimination and reinforce the power of men in society and are used to ensure that men and women conform to their prescribed gender roles and do not challenge the traditional order. Culture and religion thus are ideas and practices that impose power dynamics and gender relations. This session/panel calls for papers that contribute to discussion and exploration of the intersection of culture, religion and gender within the context of inequality. It focuses on the role of culture and religion in gender dynamics, gender relations, women’s status, and women’s experience. This session/panel aims to address such questions as How gender, religion, and culture are correlated? Does the effect of a specific religion/culture on women’s status and experience vary in different settings? How and to what extent cultural and religious norms and practices contribute to gender inequality?