Essentially a Mother: A Feminist Approach to the Law of Pregnancy and Motherhood

The law of pregnancy and motherhood has been overrun by sexist ideology, according to Jennifer Hendricks, who argues that feminists must overthrow the skewed value system that subordinates women, devalues caregiving, and denies too many the right to parent.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

The law governing pregnancy and motherhood has been overtaken by sexist ideology, according to a mother who contends that this ideology has taken control. Courts have ruled that a pregnant woman's nine months of gestation are of little significance in her claim to be the child's parent and that a man's fleeting ejaculation holds greater importance than a woman's labor. With such dubious arguments, courts have stripped women of their right to abortion, treated surrogate mothers as mere vessels, and granted biological fathers—even those who became fathers through rape—automatic rights over women and their children.

In her incisive and groundbreaking book, Jennifer Hendricks argues that feminists must challenge the skewed value system that subordinates women, devalues caregiving, and denies too many the right to parent. Hendricks emphasizes the importance of recognizing the contributions of women in society and challenging the notion that caregiving is solely a women's responsibility. She also calls for the abolition of the patriarchy and the recognition of women's rights as human rights.

Hendricks' book is a powerful call to action for feminists and anyone who believes in equality and justice. It sheds light on the ways in which sexist ideology has impacted the law and society, and provides a roadmap for building a more inclusive and equitable world. By challenging the skewed value system that subordinates women and devalues caregiving, feminists can work towards creating a society that values and respects the contributions of all individuals, regardless of gender.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520388253