Feminist Challenges: Social and Political Theory

Over the past decade, an impressive body of feminist criticism of social and political theory has been written, work which raises far-reaching questions about conventional assumptions and methods, and reveals how feminist theorists challenge the fundamental presuppositions and categories of “male-stream” theory.

The essays in this collection break new ground by going beyond analysis of classic texts or examination of “women’s issues.” Texts and issues are placed in a wider theoretical perspective which brings the patriarchal construction of theory itself into question. Major themes explored include: the relationship of women and feminism to the theoretical tradition; the problem of “equality”; the theoretical significance of sexual difference and the female body; and the development of feminist theoretical alternatives. “Feminist challenges” is essential reading for students in the social sciences and humanities concerned with theoretical issues.