Feminist Theory and Critiques of Capitalism

Feminist theory has long been a central site of critique of the excesses and inequalities of capitalist modes of production and social relations, whether calling for reform or theorizing a revolution. In this course, we will examine feminist critiques of capitalism, focusing in particular on questions of labor, housework and reproduction, property, and the experiences of sexuality and pleasure. We will attend first to Marxist (and anti-Marxist) feminist theory before turning to feminist critique of capitalism in the contemporary era marked by biopolitics and neoliberal government. Finally, we will consider (feminist) alternatives to capitalism and examine the possibilities for post-capitalist politics.