What is Feminist Theory? I have read a lot about PostModern Feminist Theory in relation to social work practice (also combining French feminism, deconstructionalism, etc). How would "mainstream" feminist theory explain intergenerational transmission (passing of behavior, morals, values, etc from one generation to the next)? Or, is feminist theory just a perspective of treating all as equals? Thanks so much and keep up the good work! Sincerely, Karen

Thanks for your note to FEMINIST.COM. I have to admit that I'm not a fan of "feminist theory" which seems to me to be a term that makes feminism seem more obscure than it is. To me, feminist theory is just the study of feminism--which is the movement toward the full social, political and economic equality of women and men. I take "mainstream feminism" to be "majority feminism"--i.e. what the majority of feminists support. Given that, I think the above definition is applicable. Of course, this is the ultimate goal and where feminists differ is how we get there.

To learn more about "feminist theory" -- I suggest you pick up the book A Glossary of Feminist Theory by Sonya Andermahr, Terry Lacell and Carol Wolkowitz.

—Amy