Feminist Theory

Feminist theory analyses gender, power, and inequality, and develops the conceptual foundations of feminism across its diverse traditions.

Scope

It covers theories of patriarchy and gender, liberal, radical, Marxist, Black, and poststructuralist feminisms, and the sex/gender distinction.

Core questions

• What are the sources of gender inequality?
• How is gender constructed?
• How do gender, race, and class intersect?
• What are the differing strands of feminist thought?

Key concepts

• Patriarchy
• Sex/gender distinction
• Intersectionality
• Performativity
• Standpoint theory
• Equality and difference

Key theories

The social construction of woman

Beauvoir's 'one is not born, but rather becomes, a woman' founded modern feminist theory.

Centering the margins

hooks insisted feminist theory address race and class, not only white middle-class women.

Gender performativity

Butler argued gender is performatively produced, founding queer feminist theory.

History

Feminist theory developed from Beauvoir through the second wave, Black and intersectional critiques (hooks), and poststructuralist and queer theory (Butler).

Debates

Equality versus difference feminism

Whether feminism should seek equality with men or revalue gender difference.

Key figures

• Simone de Beauvoir
• bell hooks
• Judith Butler

Seminal works

• beauvoir-1949
• hooks-1984
• butler-1990

Frequently asked questions

What is gender performativity?

Butler's idea that gender is not an inner essence but is produced through repeated performances and acts.