Evangeline's father preaches that a woman's greatest possession is her chastity. Is this still the case? Why and how do you think this has changed over the decades?

Evangeline's father preaches that a woman's greatest possession is her chastity. Is this still the case? Why and how do you think this has changed over the decades?

I think this is a very tough question. I work with a very religious man who recently married, and this was very important to them. I would say mainstream parents now try to encourage waiting, but try to speak with their kids realistically about birth control as most teen girls don't wait until marriage to become sexually active.

In the 1800s, losing one's chastity could mean losing the chance to marry well. Which was seen as a devastating prospect for the woman as well as her parents.
Chastity for women is still a big deal in some countries and in some religions. But for the majority of people today, it is no longer viewed as a possession, great or otherwise.

I agree with elise and Gloria. Chastity is no longer a woman's greatest attribute. I think the advent of widely available methods to prevent an unwanted pregnancy and more opportunities for women to use their minds instead of their bodies to either marry well and/or achieve success, makes chastity moot. Although, as Gloria and elise mentioned, it is still expected in some countries and religions.

I think his statement relates specifically to one's moral compass. Both the concept and attributes of a moral compass have changed over time. In fact, some believe that today's society needs to review the benefits of individuals (within the society itself) having a strong moral compass. 'Nuf said... .

It may not be as overt as in the past, but I think there is still a strong undercurrent there. Especially depending on what social circles one is a part of. Certainly there would be a big difference between a fundamentalist Christian group and the Hell's Angels perceptions.
Granted, so much has changed over the generations regarding a woman's reputation, but I think they are still stigmatized more than men.

I think a woman's greatest possession is her intelligence and drive. I think a woman needs to have good judgment with regard to her relationships.

No, this isn’t true anymore and shouldn’t be. It was a way of controlling women, and of course, preventing unplanned pregnancies. But a woman’s body is her own, and she should feel free to make her own decisions about sex, and hopefully make good decisions.

It may be for some people/cultures but for the majority of people it isn't. People are looking for other attributes when they marry - they want more of a partnership. Women are able to be independent financially and emotionally and no longer rely on men to support them. We are more equal. Sexual compatibility is more important now than chastity.

True is some cultures but not most.

I do not believe it has her greatest possession, an important one, however...

When marriage was a woman’s only way to success and security, chastity was highly valued. Men were not so restrained. Now that women have more options and frequently are prepared to support themselves, chastity is not as important. The availability of reliable birth control is also relevant.

That attitude changed in the 20th century as women began to exercise their new rights and become educated and financially independent. I do believe, however, that it is an individual choice, and one that should not be done haphazardly. Some young girls feel the pressure and that is not healthy