Carol Platt Liebau: A Legacy Divided

When Gloria Steinem died last week, she was mourned across popular culture as a feminist icon.  But her legacy was a mixed one. Many feminist reforms of the civil rights era were necessary and right — including laws against sex and pregnancy discrimination.  But Steinem’s brand of feminism also had an anti-male streak that still poisons relations between the sexes today. She popularized the line: “A woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle.” Steinem promoted the idea that women find their greatest fulfillment through work outside the home—and Generations of women and children have paid the price. She also advocated for the abortion on demand culture that has shaped the course of our nation. There’s no question: Gloria Steinem lived an influential life. But on her impact? The jury—like our country—is split.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.