The Unsexed Mind and Psychological Androgyny, 1790-1848: Radicalism, Reform and Gender in England

The concept of psychological androgyny or the unsexed mind emerged as a notion of psychosexual equality between the 1790s and 1840s, promoted by a network of heterodox radicals on the margins of Rational Dissent. It argued that society and patriarchal institutions should be reformed to accommodate and protect an 'infinitely varied humanity'. This book offers a revision to understandings of progressive debates on gender in Britain.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 20 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into a significant gap in British history, spanning from the 1790s to the 1840s. During this period, a novel concept emerged called psychological androgyny, or the unsexed mind. It was championed by a small but influential network of heterodox radicals on the fringes of Rational Dissent. These radicals were deeply concerned about the growing segregation of the sexes, seemingly supported by arbitrary and increasingly binary models of sexual difference. They firmly believed that while the body could be sexed, the mind was not. They argued that society and the patriarchal institutions of patriarchy needed to be reformed to accommodate and safeguard what one radical referred to as an 'infinitely varied humanity.' By placing the concept of psychological androgyny at the forefront, this book provides a substantial reevaluation of progressive debates on gender in late eighteenth and early nineteenth-century Britain. It sheds light on the overlooked perspectives of these heterodox radicals and their vision for a more inclusive and equitable society. Through its meticulous research and insightful analysis, this book offers a fresh perspective on the complexities of gender identity and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030881184
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021