Theorizing Gender An Introduction

by Alsop, Rachel; Fitzsimons, Annette; Lennon, Kathleen

• ISBN13: 9780745619446
• ISBN10: 0745619444
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-06-03
• Publisher: Polity

Summary

This accessible text aims to give a theoretical overview of approaches to gender. The book discusses the major theories concerned with the ways in which we 'become engendered', and explains and evaluates naturalist, psychoanalytic, materialist and post-structuralist accounts. Tensions between these different approaches are acknowledged , but stark polarities are resisted. Throughout the book it is recognized that becoming gendered implicates and is implicated by other aspects of social becoming. The work of Judith Butler is discussed in detail and its importance and limitations spelt out in key chapters on sexuality, the body, transgendering and political agency. Debates between 'queer' approaches to gender and those prioritizing sexual difference are also brought to the fore. Theorizing Gender aims to provide a framework for weaving together what are often viewed as opposing directions of thought. Students and researchers in sociology, philosophy and gender studies, and all those with an interest in gender will find it an invaluable resource.

Author Biography

Dr Rachel Alsop, Gender Studies, University of Hull

Dr. Annette FitzSimons, School of Social and Professional Studies, University of Lincoln and Humberside

Dr. Kathleen Lennon, Philosophy , University of Hull

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements	vi
Introduction	1	(11)
Natural Women and Men	12	(27)
Psychoanalysis and Gender	39	(25)
The Social Construction of Gender	64	(30)
Judith Butler: `The Queen of Queer'	94	(20)
Gender and Sexuality	114	(16)
Theorizing Men and Masculinities	130	(35)
Bodily Imaginaries	165	(17)
Sexual Difference	182	(19)
Borderlands and Gendered Homes	201	(19)
Gender and the Politics of Identity	220	(20)
Notes	240	(3)
Bibliography	243	(25)
Index	268