An Introduction to Feminism

This critical introduction offers a balanced view of both the theory and the practice of feminism, exploring a range of approaches.

Lorna Finlayson (Author)

9781107121041, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 25 February 2016

256 pages
24.6 x 17.8 x 1.8 cm, 0.66 kg

'Finlayson does not provide a standard, mainstream description of feminism. In many ways this is likely to be refreshing, particularly for those dissatisfied with deceptively tidy descriptions.' Choice

As well as providing a clear and critical introduction to the theory, this refreshing overview focuses on the practice of feminism with coverage of actions and activism, bringing the subject to life for newcomers as well as offering fresh perspectives for advanced students. Explanations of the main strands to feminism, such as liberalism, sit alongside an exploration of a range of approaches, such as radical, anarchist and Marxist feminism, and provide much-needed context against which more familiar historical themes may be understood. The author's broad and inclusive view conveys the diversity and disagreement within feminism with accessible clarity. The analysis of key terms equips readers with a critical understanding of the vocabulary of feminist debates that will be invaluable to undergraduate students.

1. Introduction
2. Feminist theory, feminist practice
3. Outposts in your head: ideology, patriarchy and critique
4. (De-)constructing coat-racks: feminism, sex and gender
5. Whose story?
6. Deeds not words
7. Faces and facades
8. Everyday rebellions: revolution in the private sphere
9. The porn wars
10. Among sisters: anarchism, socialism and feminism
11. Not in our Name: colonialism, capitalism and the co-option of feminism
12. Goodbye to all that…
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Political science & theory [JPA], Social & political philosophy [HPS]