As feminism is a broad term to describe the advocacy against the oppression of women

many people are often unaware of the distinctions among its different schools. Today

when the term is discussed

most are referring to what is known as “modern feminism.” The concept of modernity in the western world

prompted by the shift from feudalism to capitalism

as well as industrialization and the Enlightenment

gave way to the first wave of feminism in the eighteenth century

particularly in Europe. As the course of feminist movements progressed

the second wave

emerging two centuries later

was centered in the United States. Whereas the first wave was dedicated to solving problems within the legal system

addressing issues such as employment

marriage laws

education

and later voting rights

the second one further expanded on issues such as gender equality in the workplace

women’s right to choose

and feminine sexuality.