Economic Woman: Gendering Inequality in the Age of Capital

The author highlights the visibility of the economic woman in duality with and opposition to the exclusive model of economic man, emphasizing that womens inequality is a crucial factor in economic inequality. The book documents womens increased participation in political, public, financial, and corporate institutions, employment, and entrepreneurship, but reveals that economic woman lags behind with a severe economic power deficit, unfulfilled equal employment opportunity, and gendered impact of poverty. It analyzes the trap of womens increased burden of breadwinning in the context of discriminatory laws and practices, infrastructural failures, and policy gaps, and argues that tackling gender inequality, restoring welfare priorities, and reducing economic inequality are inextricably linked.

Format: Hardback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The author delves into the concept of the "economic woman," shedding light on her existence in duality with and opposition to the exclusive model of the "economic man." The portrayal of the economic man has been synonymous with neo-liberal capitalism, which champions competition and the pursuit of maximum profit, leading to a significant rise in economic inequality. Recognizing the crucial role of women's inequality in economic disparity, the book underscores the need to understand their situation in order to comprehend the full scope of this issue. It argues that the conditions created under global neo-liberalism hinder the flourishing of the economic woman.

The author emphasizes the international human rights guarantees of women's right to equality in all spheres of life, highlighting their increased participation in political, public, financial, and corporate institutions, employment, and entrepreneurship. While some women have achieved high-profile positions, the book reveals that economic woman lags behind, facing a severe economic power deficit, an unfulfilled promise of equal employment opportunities, a gendered impact of poverty, and barriers to gender equality within the family.

Through an analysis of global data, the book uncovers the challenges faced by economic women. It highlights the burden they bear as the primary breadwinners, often facing discriminatory laws and practices, inadequate infrastructure, and policy gaps that hinder their achievement of gender equality in economic life. The book is designed for a broad audience, including academics, students, policy makers, and non-governmental organizations. It serves as a poignant reminder that addressing gender inequality, restoring welfare priorities, and reducing economic inequality are interconnected and require concerted efforts from both human rights advocates and governments.

The author emphasizes that the economic woman occupies a pivotal position at a global crossroads, navigating between a universal paradigm of gender equality and pervasive barriers to equal economic opportunity. By demonstrating the interconnectedness of these issues, the book underscores the urgency of tackling gender inequality and promoting inclusive economic growth. It calls for a transformative approach that recognizes the rights and contributions of all individuals, regardless of gender, and addresses the systemic barriers that perpetuate economic inequality.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the economic woman's experiences and challenges. It sheds light on the role of women in the economy and highlights the need for gender equality and inclusive economic growth. By advocating for transformative policies and practices, the book contributes to a more equitable and prosperous world for all.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138189027