Feminism and Christianity: Questions and Answers in the Third Wave

by Caryn D. Riswold

Why should feminists care about Christianity? Why should Christians care about feminism? In Feminism and Christianity Riswold presents a collection of concise answers to basic questions like these in order to generate discussion about how the two can challenge each other and can even work together in the twenty-first century. Situated firmly in the third wave of feminist activism and scholarship as well as in contemporary Christian theology, Riswold addresses issues such as race, class, gender, and sexuality with an affirmation of tradition alongside a push for change. This book is an opportunity for Christians to gain a fuller understanding of feminism, moving beyond stereotypes and assumptions and into history and contemporary society. Simultaneously this book is an opportunity for feminists to understand the ongoing relevance of a religion whose social power and core commitments can contribute to a vision of a just human community.

144 pages, Paperback

Published October 1, 2009

About the author

Caryn is a feminist theologian in the Lutheran tradition who writes at the intersection of feminism, religion, social justice, and pop culture. She is a professor of religion and gender & women's studies at Illinois College, and blogs regularly at Patheos.com.

Reviews

[Manda · Rating 3 out of 5]

The beginning of this books was difficult for me to really get into, probably because it is a basic introduction to two things that I already know a bit about. Once I made it through to the discussion between why the two groups should find each other relevant it became easier to read. There was a piece of me that thought this book could have been condensed... perhaps a pamphlet that focused on the answers to the questions each section posed, but I did learn a few things I didn't know and am left with even more books to add to my reading list. It's worth your time if you identify as a feminist, a Christian, or both.