Deconstructing Equality Versus -- Difference or Poststructuralist

¶ … Deconstructing Equality versus -- Difference or Poststructuralist Theory for Feminism (1988)," by Joan Scott gave details regarding some insight into the term post- structuralism and the battle of equality in differences between men and women in a case regarding Sears. This article at first was a little hard to follow but after looking a little closer, it all came together. For example Joan Scott wrote about the word "Language" under the understanding of poststructuralism this word does not stand for " a set of grammatical rules but, rather a meaning constituting system: that is, any system strictly verbal or other through which meaning is constructed and cultural practices organized." The structure of the article is easy to follow since one is given a basic understanding of concepts and rational in the beginning. Later in the body of the article, one is given an example of a court case with Sears. In the example of sears one can grasp that by trying to make the line between men and woman and our difference disappear, one can make these differences more obvious. Joan Scott concludes by voicing the importance of not looking for "equality" because this terminology invokes an ideology of sameness, Joan Scott believes that in order to find true equality one must first do systematic criticisms of the operations of differences, then seek out a term that defines "equality of differences." This article does a good job of making one think "outside of the box." When one wants to find equality, one must embrace those things that make one an original/different. It is easier to see that in actuality when there is a search for equality, we are all different, different in ability, beliefs, etc. Therefore, instead of trying to make one fit into a mold, set out for difference, and express/show why those differences make you an equal in ones own right. Therefore, in essence Joan Scott best stated it when she said, "move in the name of an equality that rests on difference." That is the only way through her understanding to be truly "equal."