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Reconceiving Pregnancy and Childcare
Ethics, Experience, and Reproductive Labor
This book argues for increased recognition of pregnancy, birthing and childrearing as social activities.
Amy Mullin (Author)
9780521605861, Cambridge University Press
Paperback, published 14 March 2005
224 pages
22.7 x 15.1 x 2 cm, 0.305 kg
'Mullin's discussion of childcare is extremely illuminating and persuasive. … a really fine book. It is hard for me to think of anyone who wouldn't benefit from reading it.' Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews
This highly original book argues for increased recognition of pregnancy, birthing and childrearing as social activities demanding simultaneously physical, intellectual, emotional and moral work from those who undertake them. Amy Mullin considers both parenting and paid childcare, and examines the impact of disability on this work. The first chapters contest misconceptions about pregnancy and birth such as the idea that pregnancy is only valued for its end result, and not also for the process. Following chapters focus on childcare provided in different circumstances and on the needs of both providers and receivers of care. The book challenges the assumption that isolated self-sacrifice should be the norm in either pregnancy or childcare. Instead reproductive labor requires greater social support. Written from the perspective of a feminist philosopher, the book draws on the work of, and seeks to increase dialogue between, philosophers and childcare professionals, disability theorists, nurses and sociologists.
Introduction
1. Pregnancy misconceived
2. Reconceiving pregnancy
3. The ethical significance of pregnancy
4. What about birth?
5. Mother and others: who can be 'maternal thinkers'?
6. Caring for children, caring for friends, caring by children
Conclusion
Notes
References
Index.
Subject Areas: Gender studies: women [JFSJ1], Gender studies, gender groups [JFSJ], Feminism & feminist theory [JFFK], Social & political philosophy [HPS]