There is no such thing as a minor group. There are however, minority groups. To say women are a marginal group doesn't really mean anything. In the fields of aeronautics and architecture they are marginal, but generally speaking, unless you are in Saudi Arabia, they cannot be called marginal. Marginal groups are generally religious or fundamental in their outlook.

Minor group and marginal groups are both small groups, and their is a difference. I do not see how women are either. after reading some descriptions, you should decide if you feel they are either- or if there is another choice of words you would use. A minor group is a small number. Their "say" or concerns are not always listened to because they do not have a large voting power. A marginal group is also small. They may be heard, and their opinions may count to those in charge - sometimes because they are loud about their opinions. A marginal group can SOMETIMES make large impacts on choices made by lawmakers. Also they SOMETIMES can make other voters have an opinion about an issue they otherwise may not have. As you see, women do not fit my descriptions. I would say (if you feel women are not being listened to) you might say, "women's ideas and concerns are being marginalized." This means they are being TREATED as though they do not matter. Yet if they can vote, this is a mistake to treat them as though they have no power. They do have the same voting power (again - if they vote). Marginalizing their opinions can not actually marginalize the women. The power of numbers remains.

That's so sad either way. Do you think that women are a "minor" group (of lesser importance) or a "marginal" group (on the outskirts of centers of political or economic power)?

kaga tau