Faculty of Education - Theses

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Bolshevism to perestroika: some indications of the experience of women in Soviet society and education 1917-1987

Bransgrove, Evelyn T. J. ( 1989)

This thesis considers aspects of gender equality in the U.S.S.R. Initially methodological difficulties are noted and several definitions of equality are investigated, resulting in a selected definition of gender equality which is conducive to a Marxist framework. Emphasis remains on the educational domain. The perceived level of gender equality evident in the U.S.S.R. is then determined by a comprehensive analysis of appointed indices of equality. These indices include an examination of Soviet legislation and educational systems. In addition many facets of the Soviet workforce are reviewed with consideration of the proportion of females in social production, remuneration differentials, status ascriptions, occupational segregation, vertical mobility and the respective levels of physical and psychological welfare based on gender. The established level of gender equality in the U.S.S.R. is then placed in its historical context, with due regard to the relevance of rural and ethnic factors. In response various causes are proposed, attempting to reveal the cultural and social forces in the Soviet Union which construct the noted gender inequities. In conclusion, the differences between stated policy and daily realities arc highlighted. Some final comments attempt to predict the future level of gender equality for the Soviet Union.