The Equal Rights Amendment controversy is studied as a conflict between two world views that are created by the rhetoric generated by proponents and opponents. Descriptions of the settings, actions, characters, and motivations of the opposing worlds reveal little common ground on which traditional argumentation can occur. (JMF)

Demonstrates that the rhetorical vision of STOP ERA is essentially mythic in both its plot (the romantic quest) and in its characters (psychological archetypes). Discusses the subtle and pervasive impact of such mythical archetypes. (JMF)

Three factors were identified as most important in explaining the nonratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA): (1) the low support for the amendment among politically influential groups; (2) the uneven geographic distribution of ERA support; and (3) the association between ERA opposition and a broader right-wing backlash. (Author/RM)

Among the various attempts to identify the social roots of antifeminism, two theories in particular are prominent. The first argues that for both men and women, anti-abortion and anti-Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) sentiments have disproportionate appeal among lower socio-economic status, rural, and older constituencies. The second asserts that for…