Feminism for the 99%

February 11, 2019
In this timely, fiery manifesto, scholars Arruzza, Bhattacharya, and Fraser herald the arrival of a new internationalist, anticapitalist feminist movement. They argue that neoliberal capitalism has caused global economic, social, political, and environmental crisis, and that only a broad-based feminism that prioritizes the concerns of working-class women can create a more stable, equitable, and humane social order. Central to these claims is the authors’ observation that the work of social reproduction—the making and maintenance of human beings—is essential, overwhelmingly performed by women, and devalued under capitalism, particularly compared to labor that generates financial profits. Several recent movements have brought attention to the value of having and raising children and have also generated the sort of collective enthusiasm that the authors believe is required to build a mass movement that unites people across identity and class lines. The feminism they describe is universalist and collaborative, in solidarity with antiracist, queer, environmental, migrant, and labor rights movements also endangered by capitalism. Appropriately for a manifesto, the authors emphasize theory, rhetoric, and principle over specific policies and actions, which they assert will emerge only from ongoing collaboration. Readers who seek a big-picture interpretation of contemporary events will enjoy this book, and left-leaning readers with an activist outlook will find it particularly energizing.