Of Marriage and the Market: Women's Subordination Internationally and its Lessons

This book explores the universal fact of women's subordination to men through the marital bond/contract, market relations, and husbands' control over wives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Despite the significant disparities between first-world and third-world societies, the subordination of women to men appears to be a universal phenomenon. Originally published in 1984, the chapters in this book specifically examine the marital bond/contract and locate the subordination of women within that contract. Other chapters explore the development and expansion of market relations and demonstrate how these affect marital relations, husbands' control over wives, and men's control over women.

The subordination of women to men is a pervasive issue that transcends cultural and societal boundaries. While there may be differences in the extent and manifestation of this phenomenon across different regions, it remains a prevalent reality in many parts of the world. This book seeks to explore the various dimensions of women's subordination within the context of marriage and family life.

Chapter 1 delves into the historical roots of women's subordination, tracing back to ancient times when women were considered property and their rights were largely limited. The author argues that the concept of marriage as a contract between men and women, which reinforces male dominance, has contributed to the perpetuation of women's subordination.

Chapter 2 examines the legal and political frameworks that perpetuate women's subordination. The author highlights the discriminatory laws and policies that limit women's access to education, employment, and property rights, as well as the lack of representation and empowerment of women in decision-making processes.

Chapter 3 explores the economic implications of women's subordination. The author argues that women's unpaid labor in the home and the workplace, as well as their lower wages and fewer opportunities for career advancement, contribute to the economic inequality between men and women.

Chapter 4 examines the social and cultural norms that perpetuate women's subordination. The author discusses the gender roles and stereotypes that are imposed on children from a young age, which limit their opportunities and perpetuate gender inequality. The chapter also explores the cultural attitudes and beliefs that justify men's control over women, such as the notion that women are inferior to men and should be subservient to their husbands.

Chapter 5 examines the impact of women's subordination on individual women and their families. The author discusses the physical and emotional abuse that women face in their homes, as well as the social and economic consequences of violence against women. The chapter also highlights the importance of women's empowerment and the need for gender equality in order to address these issues.

Chapter 6 explores the strategies that women can use to resist and challenge women's subordination. The author discusses the importance of education, awareness-raising, and advocacy efforts to promote women's rights and gender equality. The chapter also provides examples of women's organizations and movements that have worked to challenge and transform gender norms and practices.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive examination of women's subordination within the context of marriage and family life. The author argues that women's subordination is not a natural or inevitable phenomenon, but rather a result of historical, legal, economic, social, and cultural factors. By understanding these factors and challenging them, we can work towards creating a more equitable and just society for all women.

Weight: 635g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032498782