, The philosophy of feminism in law
By
[RRLLB81 Student]
(Student Number: 012345678)
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree
BACHELOR OF LAWS
in the
DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL AND PROCEDURAL LAW
SCHOOL OF LAW
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA
Supervisor: Prof MM Monyakane
RRLLB81 Assessment 2 / Final Portfolio
(Due Date: April 2026)
, ABSTRACT
This research report examines the philosophy of feminism in law and its influence on legal
thought, legal institutions, and the development of equality within modern legal systems.
Feminist legal theory challenges traditional legal frameworks by arguing that the law has
historically been shaped by patriarchal assumptions that often marginalise or disadvantage
women. The study therefore explores how feminist scholars critique the supposed neutrality
of the law and highlight the ways in which legal rules, institutions, and interpretations may
reproduce gender inequality.1
The research further investigates the contribution of feminist jurisprudence to the
advancement of gender equality, particularly within constitutional democracies such as South
Africa. Through the analysis of feminist legal scholarship, constitutional principles, and
relevant legal developments, the study evaluates how feminist perspectives have influenced
legal reform and the recognition of women's rights. The report also considers how feminist
legal theory contributes to broader discussions about justice, equality, and the transformation
of the law.2 Ultimately, the research emphasises the importance of feminist philosophy in
promoting a more inclusive and equitable legal system.
Keywords: feminist jurisprudence; gender equality; feminist legal theory; law and gender;
constitutional equality.
Here is the exact same text with bold headings applied to all section titles and numbered
subheadings for better readability:
1. Introduction
1.1 Background to the Study
1
C A MacKinnon Toward a Feminist Theory of the State (1989)
2
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
By
[RRLLB81 Student]
(Student Number: 012345678)
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree
BACHELOR OF LAWS
in the
DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL AND PROCEDURAL LAW
SCHOOL OF LAW
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA
Supervisor: Prof MM Monyakane
RRLLB81 Assessment 2 / Final Portfolio
(Due Date: April 2026)
, ABSTRACT
This research report examines the philosophy of feminism in law and its influence on legal
thought, legal institutions, and the development of equality within modern legal systems.
Feminist legal theory challenges traditional legal frameworks by arguing that the law has
historically been shaped by patriarchal assumptions that often marginalise or disadvantage
women. The study therefore explores how feminist scholars critique the supposed neutrality
of the law and highlight the ways in which legal rules, institutions, and interpretations may
reproduce gender inequality.1
The research further investigates the contribution of feminist jurisprudence to the
advancement of gender equality, particularly within constitutional democracies such as South
Africa. Through the analysis of feminist legal scholarship, constitutional principles, and
relevant legal developments, the study evaluates how feminist perspectives have influenced
legal reform and the recognition of women's rights. The report also considers how feminist
legal theory contributes to broader discussions about justice, equality, and the transformation
of the law.2 Ultimately, the research emphasises the importance of feminist philosophy in
promoting a more inclusive and equitable legal system.
Keywords: feminist jurisprudence; gender equality; feminist legal theory; law and gender;
constitutional equality.
Here is the exact same text with bold headings applied to all section titles and numbered
subheadings for better readability:
1. Introduction
1.1 Background to the Study
1
C A MacKinnon Toward a Feminist Theory of the State (1989)
2
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
