Feminism

Important, readable, and ripe for discussion. Buy a copy for yourself and then one for a friend because you're going to want to talk about it.

Don't be fooled by the word introduction—although this does introduce the beginner feminist to the movement, this is so much more than a simple overview of feminism. 

This has an introductory quality, but the intellectual tone keeps this from feeling dumbed-down in the way many introductory works tend to. Going into this, I did not consider myself to be in the introductory stage of my learning of feminism, but I did feel like a beginner in the larger sense. I feel that even if you are a veteran feminist, you would still benefit from a brief brush up on the basics of the movement. 

This covers each of the four waves of feminism by giving you their history and primary goals, and how they compare to each other. She provides ample research to show what each of these waves looked like for women, as well as women's place in history prior to the formative years of the first wave. Loads of feminist figures—both historical and contemporary—are referenced throughout, as well as significant feminist works, so you, as the reader, will have an idea of where to turn upon finishing this book.

The author also presents the opposing views feminists have on different topics, and thoroughly explains both sides without seeming to take one side or push it on the reader. And while explaining each side, and providing supporting arguments for that side, she also provides the counterarguments, and compares the ways in which the two (or more) sides conflict and agree. 

All of this the author manages to do while remaining inclusive, and consistently acknowledges that feminism's improvements have not equally benefited all women. She keeps in mind how these different aspects of our society affect people in non-western societies, people of color (but specifically women of color), and people in the lower class. 

In nearly every topic she discusses, she also addresses how men fit into that aspect of society, and how their place both benefits and hinders them. 

I knew after the introduction in this that I was reading something great. If you ever read a feminist work I've recommended, make this one it.

A wonderfully concise and clear explanation of feminism and the dialogue surrounding it today. Many differing and diverse viewpoints are addressed, all respectfully. An excellent primer for learning about this vital movement. Highly recommended!

I received a digital ARC from the publisher via Netgalley.

This was a wonderful presentation of what feminism really means, to all sorts of women, not just those yelling the loudest. I really liked the thorough manner that this dealt with the current climate of women in the workforce (at home and in the outside workforce) as well as the historical perspective of where our prior generations came from and what they fought to achieve that has led us to have the choices that we have currently. I have always thought of feminism as the woman's right to choose the life she wants for herself, whether that is in the home or outside the home or a combination of the two. This book was very good at putting those ideas into words and prior events that supported the feminist movement.
Really well done.

#Feminism #NetGalley

It calls itself a brief introduction but it’s incredibly thorough despite its brevity (144 pages). Mixing notes of feminism past, present, and future, Deborah Cameron manages to cover all the key notes of how we’ve arrived at our current standing and where we’re going. More importantly, Cameron focuses heavily on the importance of intersectionality, varying viewpoints, goals, cultures, genders, and beyond. This isn’t White Lady Feminism 101 like far too many books on the subject tend to be. This isn’t simply an overview of feminism, but a review of the map that got us here with the constant necessary reminder that our maps all look different and the destination is not the same across the board.

Using ample research sources, Cameron compares and contrasts the four waves of feminism (stating her belief that we’re currently in the early to mid-stages of the fourth wave) while touching briefly on the conflict between generations of self-identified feminists. Like all areas of life, there are certain members of every generation that believes that they had it harder than those that come after them, that they fought the “real” fight, and that “kids these days” are just asking for too much. With a deft hand and gentle coaxing, Cameron reminds us that while the battles may be different, they’re still battles worth fighting.

Where Cameron’s writing and knowledge shines brightest is covering the opposing views of feminists on the same issue while not siding with any one notion or mindset. And, since according to every man on the internet we’re supposed to factor in how feminism helps men as well, Cameron consistently brings them into the conversation discussing their place, status, and the ways they benefit from a strong feminist movement.

This is a good and important read no matter your stance, experience, or label. New to feminism? Great. Read this. Consider yourself a veteran in the trenches fighting the good fight for as long as you can recall? Great. Read this.