Women in Movement

"Women in Movement" is an historical introduction to a wide range of women's movements from the late-18th century to the present. It describes economic, social and political ideas that have inspired women to organize, not only in Europe and North America, but also in the Third World. Historical accounts of the origins of feminism cover the lives and theories of individuals, as well as campaigns and organizations. Sheila Rowbotham outlines a long history of women's challenges to the gender bias in political and economic concepts. She shows women laying claim to rights and citizenship, while contesting male definitions of their scope and seeking to enlarge the meaning of economy through action around production and consumption, environmental protests and welfare projects. "Women in Movement" aims to provide readers with thought-provoking information and to introduce them to ideas about women's position in society. It also gives a basis for thinking through wider issues about progress, development, individualism, collectivity, welfare, needs, rights and entitlements. Themes for discussion lead each section, and general bibliographies follow each chapter.