Feminism as a New Belief System

A notable author with eleven books to her name, plus an upcoming title focused on feminism, views the movement as having transformed into something akin to a secular “megachurch.” This version of feminism, she argues, has developed its own set of doctrines, rituals, and moral guidelines, effectively becoming a substitute for faith and traditional Christian values.

According to Carrie Gress, a researcher at the Institute for Human Ecology at the Catholic University of America, feminism is positioned in opposition to Christianity. She recently shared her insights in an interview, stating, “Feminism isn’t really part of Christianity; it’s actually a rival to Christianity.”

Gress’s forthcoming book, titled Something Wicked: Why Feminism Can't Integrate with Christianity, delves into how feminism has managed to resonate deeply with women by adopting certain Christian-like elements. She describes it as a “megachurch” that has created its own ‘commandments,’ ‘virtues,’ ‘evangelization,’ and more.

“In many ways, you could think of it as a megachurch,” she notes, adding that it embodies many characteristics found in Christianity.

From its early days, Gress suggests, feminism was intended to be an alternative belief system that fundamentally contradicts Christian principles. “Feminism has its own sacraments,” she explains, “its own rituals and virtues.” A historical reference she makes is about the ‘commandments of feminism,’ which trace back to the early 1800s, including ideas that originated from Romantic poets like Percy Bysshe Shelley—who emphasizes disdain for men, aversion to monogamy, and a penchant for promiscuity.

Gress’s views resonate with similar sentiments explored in past articles and research. For example, a 2015 article from The Atlantic observed that today’s feminist movement resembles religious fundamentalism, marked by dogmatism and the marginalization of dissenters. The author expressed concern that feminists might fear scientific insights that could challenge their convictions.

Interestingly, figures like Nicki Minaj have also highlighted feminist ideology, emphasizing independence and self-sufficiency for women. The broader narrative, as Gress argues, revolves around feminism promoting the notion that personal fulfillment comes from autonomy and professional success, often at the expense of family and relationships.

“Feminism has created an idol of female autonomy,” Gress points out. This belief system teaches women that genuine happiness is found outside of traditional roles like marriage, which are often depicted as hindrances to achieving personal goals.

Furthermore, Gress asserts that feminism undermines the societal value of motherhood by framing children as obstacles. “Women are made for love,” she reflects, suggesting that the natural desire to nurture has merely shifted focus, evident in society’s increasing affection for pets as substitutes for familial roles.

She believes that to navigate away from these challenges presented by feminism, there needs to be a thoughtful re-establishment of traditional gender roles, aimed at highlighting the unique contributions of both men and women. “It’s about reclaiming femininity and helping women understand their roles better,” she adds, proposing that when both partners in a relationship recognize their purpose, it can lead to healthier dynamics in families and society.