Feminist Responses to the Neoliberalization of the University: From Surviving to Thriving

Neoliberal discourses in higher education undermine, commodify, and co-opt the radical, transformative work of gender and womens studies departments. Contributors discuss responses to these challenges, inspiring a new wave of feminist consciousness raising and transformative engagement with the university.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 198 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2021
Publisher: Lexington Books

The contributors to this collection explore their responses to the challenges posed by neoliberal discourses in higher education, which aim to undermine, commodify, and co-opt the radical, transformative work being done by gender and women's studies departments, programs, and centers. Through mentorship, activism, active allyship, and experimental pedagogies, they strive to inspire a new wave of feminist consciousness-raising that will encourage transformative ways of engaging with the university and lead to new understandings of productivity and creativity.

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Neoliberal discourses in higher education have a detrimental impact on the work of gender and women's studies departments, programs, and centers. These discourses seek to undermine the transformative potential of their work by commodifying it, restricting its scope, and co-opting it for mainstream purposes. Contributors to this collection discuss their strategies for responding to these challenges, which range from mentorship and activism to active allyship and experimental pedagogies.

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The contributors to this collection offer valuable insights into the ways in which gender and women's studies departments, programs, and centers can resist neoliberal pressures and continue to promote radical transformation. They emphasize the importance of building strong networks of support, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and developing innovative teaching practices that challenge dominant narratives and promote critical thinking.

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One of the key themes explored in the collection is the role of feminist consciousness-raising in combating neoliberal ideologies. The contributors argue that feminist consciousness-raising can inspire individuals to challenge the status quo, question power structures, and advocate for social justice. By raising awareness about the intersectionality of gender, race, class, and sexuality, feminist consciousness-raising can create a more inclusive and equitable academic environment.

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The contributors to this collection also highlight the importance of engaging with the broader community beyond the university. They argue that gender and women's studies departments, programs, and centers can play a vital role in promoting social change and addressing systemic inequalities by collaborating with community organizations, activists, and policymakers. Through public education, community outreach, and advocacy efforts, they can contribute to the broader movement for gender equality and social justice.

In conclusion, this collection provides a powerful testament to the resilience and creativity of gender and women's studies departments, programs, and centers in the face of neoliberal pressures. By exploring their responses to these challenges and advocating for transformative practices, the contributors inspire a new wave of feminist consciousness-raising that will encourage individuals and communities to challenge the status quo and work towards a more equitable and just world.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 218 x 154 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793610393