Published in 1989
215 pages
Iris Marion Young (1949 – 2006) was one of the most important feminist philosophers of last decade of the 20th century and of the early 21st century. She was an American political theorist and socialist feminist who focused on the nature of justice and social difference. She served as Professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago and was affiliated with the Center for Gender Studies and the Human Rights program there. Her research covered contemporary political theory, feminist social theory, and normative analysis of public policy. She believed in the importance of political activism and encouraged her students to involve themselves in their communities.
Jeffner Allen is the author of Lesbian Philosophy: Explorations; editor of Lesbian Philosophies and Cultures, published by SUNY Press; and co-editor of The Thinking Muse: Feminism and Recent French Thought. She is Professor of Philosophy at State University of New York at Binghamton.
What is this book about?
Marking a radical shift in the traditional philosophical separation between muse (female) and thinker (male), The Thinking Muse revises the scope and methods of philosophical reflection. These engaging essays by American feminists bring together feminist philosophy, existential phenomenology, and recent currents in French poststructuralist thought.
“… some very serious critiques of French existential phenomenology and post-structuralism… the contributors offer some refreshingly new insights into some tried and ‘true’ philosophical texts and more recent works of literary theory.” — Philosophy and Literature
“By bridging the gap between ‘analytic’ and ‘continental’ philosophy, the authors of The Thinking Muse: Feminism and the Modern French Philosophy largely overcome the cultural polarity between ‘male thinker’ and ‘female muse’.” — Ethics
“These engaging essays by American Feminists bring toether feminist philosophy, existential phenomenology, and recent currents in French poststructuralist thought. The editors provide an excellent introductory overview, making this an ideal book for courses in feminist theory and philosophy and modern French thought.” — Philosopher’s Index
“The concerns raised in this volume are substantial…. a solid addition to the canon of American feminist philosophy.” — Philosophy and Literature
“… a forum for feminist appropriations of existential and post-structuralist philosophy.” — Canadian Philosophical Reviews
