In this book she gives us a wide spectrum analysis on the the nature of Conflict, People and Power and how mainstream perceptions of each have an impact in what we see today in the International Relations field. Laura Sjoberg has done extensive academic work on the relationship between gender and war and decision-making.
Gendering Global Conflict: Toward a Feminist Theory of War (2013) This book is not for everybody, it is not an easy read and for some it could be quite tedious but the connection between news events makes this a fascinating read. Though they often are not mentioned in international analysis, Enloe talks about how the world economic and political system as well as the food, tourism and war industries would not function properly if females were not playing their part in holding everything together.
What makes this book iconic is Enloe’s research on several case studies in Asia and the Persian Gulf during the 1960s – 1980s which explain how unpaid domestic work and women’s role behind the scenes are so crucial in shaping international relations. This is a staple in your reading essentials of feminist theory in International Relations. Bananas, Beaches and Bases: Making Feminist Sense of International Politics (1990) Feminine States kind of thing, and how gender biases shape behavior in the international relations arena. Therefore, the research builds upon Sociologist Raewyn Connell’s concept of hegemonic masculinity and subordinate feminized masculinities, Male States vs. dissertation at the University of Bristol titled Manly States: Multiple Masculinities and their relevance to World Politics. Manly States: Masculinities, International Relations and Gender Politics (2001)Ĭharlotte Hooper’s book began as a Ph.D.
Though it is not a feminist theory book it is an essential to understand how the conception of International Relations political science field predominantly focused on a specific type/image of men and the inclusion or consideration of women, femininity and other expressions of gender and power dynamics were often disregarded (even when talking about peace!). Known for being one of the founders of neorrealism, here Kenneth Waltz explores how classic and contemporary philosophers view the nature of a man, the origins and behaviors of a state and what causes both to engage in a war. In here you will find an introduction to feminist perspectives on world affairs but also an understanding on recent phenomenons like the Arab Spring, the 2008 financial crisis, the Global War on Terror and more. Ann Tickner’s, the work of Jill Steans covers a compendium of feminist research done in key issues: Nature of the State, Citizenship, Conflict, Peace and Security, Human Rights, Development and even Representational Practices in International Politics. Gender and International Relations (2013)ĭon’t let the title confuse you. If you want to explore further I invite you to check one of her newest books “Gendering World Politics” (2001)which updates the topics on the previous one but adds new feminist perspectives on IR, human rights and globalization since then. Tickner is known for a deconstructive approach to the structural understanding of International Relations theory and in this work she provides a necessary conversation of traditionalist views on the role of women, democratization, war and peace. Ann Tickner is the author of an introductory book that seeks to explain how the world’s political and economic systems have rewarded men and treated women differently. Definitely top choice! Gender in International Relations (1992)
Under this symbolic view of Beautiful Souls and Just Warriors, Jean Bethke Elshtain analyses how throughout Ancient Greece and contemporary times, gender stereotypes allowed society to function and gave reason for men to go to war and women to “serve a purpose”. It is an essential reading to easily understand the power dynamics and gendered connections between public and private lives, men and women relationships in times of peace and war. I always recommend this book to my feminist theory workshop students. Wondering where to start learning gender perspectives on world affairs? Here is a top list of recommended books for you.