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Toward a Feminist Theory of War

Ivan Cox

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Published in Gendering Global Conflict: Toward A Feminist Theory Of War

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War is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has been studied by scholars from a variety of disciplines. However, one perspective that has often been overlooked is that of feminism. Feminist theory offers a unique lens through which to examine war, as it focuses on the ways in which gender and power dynamics shape conflict and its consequences.

Gendering Global Conflict: Toward a Feminist Theory of War

by Laura Sjoberg

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	480 pages

A feminist theory of war begins with the recognition that war is not a gender-neutral event. Rather, it is an experience that is shaped by gender in a number of ways. For example, men are more likely to be conscripted into military service than women, and they are also more likely to be killed or injured in combat. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to be victims of sexual violence during wartime, and they are also more likely to be responsible for caring for the wounded and the displaced.

The gendered nature of war has a profound impact on the way that it is experienced and understood. For example, the fact that men are more likely to be killed or injured in combat means that war is often seen as a masculine activity. This can lead to the exclusion of women from decision-making processes related to war and peace, and it can also make it difficult for women to speak out against war.

A feminist theory of war also challenges the traditional view of war as a rational act. Feminists argue that war is often driven by irrational emotions such as fear, anger, and hatred. These emotions can lead to violence and conflict, and they can make it difficult to resolve conflicts peacefully.

A feminist theory of war has a number of implications for peace and security. First, it suggests that we need to rethink the way that we think about war. We need to recognize that war is not a gender-neutral event, and that it has a profound impact on women and men in different ways. Second, a feminist theory of war suggests that we need to develop new strategies for peace and security. These strategies should focus on addressing the root causes of war, such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination. Third, a feminist theory of war suggests that we need to empower women. Women have a vital role to play in preventing war and building peace, and we need to give them the tools and resources they need to do so.

A feminist theory of war is essential for understanding the full extent of war's impact and for developing effective strategies for peace and security. By recognizing the gendered nature of war and challenging the traditional view of war as a rational act, feminists offer a unique perspective on this complex and devastating phenomenon.

Enloe, C. (1990). Bananas, beaches and bases: Making feminist sense of international politics. University of California Press.
Tickner, J. A. (1992). Gender in international relations: Feminist perspectives on achieving global security. Columbia University Press.
Peterson, V. S. (1998). Gendered states and global violence: The power of domestic violence in international politics. Routledge.

Gendering Global Conflict: Toward a Feminist Theory of War

by Laura Sjoberg

5 out of 5