Feminisms Matter: Debates, Theories, Activism

by Victoria L. Bromley

In this lively narrative, newcomers to women's and gender studies, feminist politics, history, and sociology explore a refreshing take on a subject matter often loaded with assumptions. Feminist theories are viewed through the critical intersections of race, class, sexuality, age, and ability, and are embedded in the experiences of everyday life, allowing Bromley to engage readers in doing theory, in making sense of concepts like "power" and "privilege," and in effecting social change. Using a variety of pedagogical devices, including provocative images, discussion questions, and classroom activities, Feminisms Matter helps readers cultivate a way of thinking critically about their everyday worlds.

Genres: Feminism, Nonfiction

272 pages, Paperback

First published October 14, 2012

Reviews

[Bobbi Jo · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have to be up front--I did not finish this book nor the class it was attached to. There were some interesting tidbits to be found within but for the most part this was extremely biased reading which tried to tell the reader what to believe more than it gave compelling arguments to change a person's mind. There have got to be better texts out there that promote feminism and equality.

[Candis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good, very accessible intro, but not a stand-alone for an intro class. It lost steam midway, recoups itself and then ends solidly. I would use this again, but differently and with supplementals.

[Katharine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid and accessible introduction to feminist studies, somewhat hampered by the occasional Cool Mom asides ("Yes, theory. OMG!") and an opening that takes pains to quickly distinguish the author from "those" feminists--you know, the kind with hairy legs and no bras.

[Amanda · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was required to read this book for an introduction to feminism class I was taking in college. I was very unimpressed with this author. The only positive part of this book is that it's pretty easy to understand. I didn't find this book to be a good guide to feminism as it didn't really explain much about feminism other than the author's views. I felt the author had a very angry narrative that was focused on sending hate towards United States citizens while touting Canadians as being much better in feminism. The author frequently expresses her radical, egalitarian views in a sort of rallying cry. I simply found the author extremely annoying since she doesn't give an expansive introduction to feminism or discussion of theory. I would not recommend reading this book if you are looking for an introduction to feminism and feminist theory. The only way I would recommend reading this is if you have the similar radical, egalitarian views to the author.

[frogfairie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars
Good overview with relatable information

[Hayley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The content was good but I often found the tone to be pretty obnoxious. Loved learning about feminism in Canada though.

[Dawn · Rating 1 out of 5]

This a a study guide that introduces a person to feminism. Not what I was looking for.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised by this book! I don't tend to really enjoy gender books because I'm far too entrenched in gender politics to be wowed by the arguments, but this book was refreshing, informative, and good for people interested in feminism and long-time feminists alike. I'll be recommending this one to others.

[Night · Rating 3 out of 5]

A simple, accessible overview of feminism and feminist ideas, and some overview of feminism through history, though I would say that part is a bit sparse, since this is short overview, and I would recommend other resources if looking for specifically the history and development of feminism or certain feminist groups. It also provides a Canadian lens, so some of the history and examples of feminism are based in Canada and Canadian movements with some ties to other intersectional groups and movements, like race and sexuality.

This is a quick overview to introduce people to feminism, not a thorough look at feminism in history or today, nor certain movements or groups. It looks at introducing new terms and movements, so a lot is left out, and it's really more a jumping off point for people who want to learn some basic ideas within feminism and some groups they might like to look into.

[TheEditingCompany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Copy edited by The Editing Company team

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and well written book on multiple understanding of feminism across time and location.