ABSTRACT
Although J. Acker notes the rapid development of feminist theory, she also recognises that formidable problems have arisen which have prevented the attainment of a theory that comprehends the gendered nature of social relations. Since the most influential of the 'old ways', such as functionalism, and its offshoot, role theory, and the better-known feminist perspectives, liberal, Marxist, and radical feminism, has been well-documented. As a response to perceptible failings in the above theories, dual-systems theories have evolved, which attempt to articulate and explain the subordination and exploitation of women in the labour market. As Acker maintains, dual systems theories, which locate the roots of patriarchy outside the mode of production in a separate system, have proved unsatisfactory. According to Socialist and Marxist feminists, it should have been possible to develop a theory of patriarchy and capitalism, and other modes of production, as one system, without attributing women's oppression only to capitalism, thereby removing the onus from men and masculinity.
