12 Best andrea dworkin Quotes

“The family is the primary unit of male power.”

This line encapsulates Dworkin's argument that the traditional family structure, often idealized by the right, is fundamentally a patriarchal institution designed to maintain male dominance and control over women. It appears early in the book, setting the stage for her analysis of how personal relationships are politicized.

“The right-wing woman is a woman who has chosen to live on her knees.”

This powerful metaphor describes Dworkin's view of women who align with right-wing ideologies. She argues they actively participate in systems that subordinate them, often internalizing and upholding the very power structures that limit their freedom and autonomy. It highlights the concept of complicity.

“The state, like the family, is a male institution.”

Dworkin extends her critique beyond the domestic sphere, arguing that the state, through its laws, policies, and cultural norms, reinforces the same patriarchal power dynamics found within the family. This quote emphasizes her view that both private and public spheres are structured to serve male interests.

“Women are defined by their reproductive capacity, and by their sexual use.”

This statement reflects Dworkin's analysis of how right-wing ideology reduces women to their biological functions and their utility to men. It argues that women's value is often measured by their ability to bear children and provide sexual service, rather than their inherent personhood or intellectual contributions.

“Her value is in her capacity to serve.”

This quote further elaborates on the prescribed role of women within right-wing frameworks. Dworkin argues that women's worth is often contingent upon their service to men, family, and the state, rather than their individual aspirations or self-defined purpose. It speaks to the instrumentalization of women.

“The right-wing woman is not a victim of male power; she is a participant in it.”

This provocative line challenges the notion that women who embrace right-wing politics are merely passive victims. Dworkin contends that they actively contribute to and uphold the systems of male supremacy, often gaining a limited form of power or security by doing so, albeit at the cost of genuine liberation.

“The right-wing woman is the natural woman.”

Dworkin critiques the right-wing's construction of the 'natural woman' as one who is inherently submissive, domestic, and focused on reproduction. She argues this 'natural' state is a social construct designed to justify and enforce women's subordinate position, rather than an inherent biological reality.

“The right-wing woman is a woman who has chosen to live in a world defined by male supremacy, a world in which she is protected by men, a world in which she is defined by her relationship to men.”

Describing the fundamental choice and position of women who align with right-wing ideologies.

“The promise of protection is the promise of submission.”

Highlighting the inherent trade-off Dworkin perceives in the right's offer of security to women.

“The right-wing woman is not a fool; she is a survivor.”

Acknowledging the complex motivations and perceived benefits for women who make these choices, even if Dworkin disagrees with the ultimate outcome.

“The family, as a social institution, is the primary means through which women are kept in their place.”

Critiquing the traditional family structure as a tool for maintaining patriarchal control over women.

“Pornography is not about sex; it is about power.”

Explaining the radical feminist view on pornography, which contrasts with some right-wing moral objections.