Feminism and Sociological Theory

What are the implications of contemporary feminism for sociological theory? This title considers these implications, focusing on: the feminist critique and re-evaluation of existing theories; concepts and areas of research; interdisciplinary linkages; and the creation of a sociological paradigm.

Prior to the late 1960′s, sociological theory was surrounded by an overwhelming preponderance of men--in terms of published writings, university professors, graduate students, professional organizations, and in research centers. The contemporary women′s movement of the late 1960′s challenged this trend by asking questions such as: Why shouldn′t there be more women professors, graduate students, researchers, and theorists? Since this time, professional organizations have seen a dramatic increase in women memberships, but the number of women in leadership roles has been disappointing. It is not surprising that feminist concerns have suffered from this kind of benign neglect. This volume is an attempt to reverse the trend and to make feminist concerns a top priority in sociological theory. The aims of this volume are: to bring theoretical efforts of feminist scholarship into the mainstream, to illuminate the directions of theoretical work currently in progress, and to encourage more thinking and writing about feminist implications in sociological theory. Contributing to this volume are some of the leading figures in feminist research--Jessie Bernard, Rose L. Coser, and Joan Acker. It should be of interest to feminist scholars, as well as students and professionals in the areas of sociology, political science, social theory, and gender studies. "Smith, Acker, and others are leading figures within the feminine discourse."