A Feminist Theory of Violence: A Decolonial Perspective

Françoise Vergès' book denounces the carceral turn in the fight against sexism, arguing that violent men are the result of racial capitalism, ultra-conservative populism, the crushing of the Global South, the exile of millions, and the proliferation of prisons. She advocates for restorative justice instead of the punitive obsession of the State.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2022
Publisher: Pluto Press

The mainstream discourse on gender equality is rife with violence, encompassing harassment, rape, abuse, and femicide. These words paint a bleak picture of a harsh reality, yet they also conceal another truth: the involvement of the State in perpetrating gendered violence. In her book, Françoise Vergès critiques the carceral approach to combating sexism. By solely focusing on violent men, we fail to delve into the root causes of their violence. Undoubtedly, the underlying factors include racial capitalism, ultra-conservative populism, the exploitation of the Global South through wars and imperialist plunder, the displacement of millions, and the proliferation of prisons. These factors conspire to elevate masculinity to serve a policy of death.

In stark contrast to the prevailing spirit of the times, Françoise Vergès advocates for restorative justice rather than the State's punitive obsession. She believes that by addressing the underlying causes of violence, such as racial inequality, economic injustice, and political oppression, we can create a more just and equitable society. Through her work, Vergès challenges us to think critically about the systems of power and control that perpetuate gender-based violence and to work towards dismantling them.

Weight: 150g
Dimension: 183 x 627 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745345673