THE WOMAN QUESTION 9 'original* theoretical framework for feminism that does not partake of other theoretical considerations. Whilst rejecting the predominant theories, but particularly Marxism, their criteria is: how useful is it to search for an original cause for the oppression of women, outside of the benefit men derive from this form of subordination ? This search will be the determining factor for the development of 'modern* feminist theory, in the cause of the 'class* of oppressed women. We can now see which are the main areas of dispute between Feminists and Marxists, regardless of their sex. The broad table above indicates where there is room for understanding, if the doubts expressed are genuine and not disruptive or anti-communist. The implications for the Women's Movement are clear. Gender inequality cannot be seperated from class inequality, and the solution to gender antagonisms are associated with class antagonisms, which can only be overthrown with the abolition of the Capitalist system. In terms of organisation, the Women's Movement must be firmly grounded in mass and class organisations, which must draw in all other toiling and oppressed sections. The feminist movement, by its expression of individualism has divided the International Women's Movement, but the debate it has generated has helped in bringing back into theoretical focus the nature of the inequality that we see around us. However, more than the debate, it is the practical experience of the organised women's movement that has vindicated Marxist theory. 1 Alexandra Kollontai: Autobiography of a Sexually Emancipated Woman : Introduction by Germain Greer, Orbadi and Chambers, London 1972. 2 Vera Zasulich, Praskovia Ivanovskaia, Olga Liubatovich Elisabeth Kovalskaia, etc. 3 Jancar (1978), Lapidus (1978), McAuley (1981), Lane (1982). 4 A. Heitlinger (1983) Womens Studies International Forum, 1985. 5 We have the varied experiences of Vietnam, P.L.O., S.W.A.P.O. Polisario etc., to learn from. 6 U. Butalia, 1985 Womens Studies International Forum, 1985. 7 Ann Oakley, "Subject Woman", Jane Lewis, "Debate on Sex and Class, New Left Review Jan-Feb '85. 8 Saffioti,—Women, Mode of Production, and Social Formations Latin American Perspectives Issue 1,2, 13, 1977. 9 Women and Communism: Selections from Marx, Engels, Lenin and Stalin, Lawrence and Wishart, 1950. 0 C. Meillassoux: Maidens, Meal and Money : Capitalism and the Domestic Community, Cambridge University Press, 198,1. 11 Scarlett Freidman: Hetrosexuality, Couples and Parenthood: a 'natural* cycle. (mimeo), 1983.