Critical Realism Feminism and Gender: A Reader

<p>In assessing the current state of feminism and gender studies whether on a theoretical or a practical level it has become increasingly challenging to avoid the conclusion that these fields are in a state of disarray. Indeed feminist and gender studies discussions are beset with persistent splits and disagreements. This reader suggests that returning to and placing centre-stage the role of philosophy especially critical realist philosophy of science is invaluable for efforts that seek to overcome or mitigate the uncertainty and acrimony that have resulted from this situation. In particular it claims that the dialectical logic that runs through critical realist philosophy is ideally suited to advancing feminist and gender studies discussions about <i>broad ontological and epistemological questions and considerations</i> <i>intersectionality</i> and <i>methodology methods and empirical research</i>. By bringing together four new and eight existing writings this reader provides both a focal point for renewed discussions about the potential and actual contributions of critical realist philosophy to feminism and gender studies and a timely contribution to these discussions. </p>