Women, Power, and Property: The Paradox of Gender Equality Laws in India

Women, Power, and Property explores the impact of women in government on social, political, and economic hierarchies in India, finding that quotas can catalyze access to economic rights and support constituent rights, but generate backlash against women who gain rights without bargaining leverage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 394 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Women's representation in government has gained widespread attention globally, yet there remains limited understanding of their potential to challenge established social, political, and economic hierarchies. Women, Power, and Property delves into this critical inquiry within the context of India, the world's largest democracy. Through a research design that combines causal inference with extensive field research, Brulé aims to explain the relationship between political representation, backlash, and economic empowerment among women.

Her findings reveal that women in government positions, often referred to as "gatekeepers," play a pivotal role in facilitating access to fundamental economic rights, particularly in terms of property ownership. Women in politics possess the ability to advocate for their constituents' rights at critical junctures, such as during marriage negotiations, where they can negotiate mutually beneficial solutions to intrahousehold bargaining. However, a paradox emerges: while quotas are crucial for the enforcement of women's rights, they can also generate backlash against women who acquire these rights without the leverage of bargaining power.

In this groundbreaking study, Brulé explores the nuances of quotas and demonstrates how well-designed policies can serve as a powerful tool for fostering equality and benefiting the women they are intended to empower. She highlights the importance of inclusive and equitable representation, as well as the need for targeted policies and initiatives to address the unique challenges faced by women in various contexts. By examining the experiences of India, Brulé offers valuable insights into the potential of women's political participation to promote social and economic transformation.

Overall, Women, Power, and Property is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of women's studies and politics, providing valuable insights into the complex dynamics between political representation, backlash, and economic empowerment. It underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the barriers that women face in accessing rights and opportunities, and advocates for policies that promote gender equality and social justice.

Weight: 594g
Dimension: 153 x 227 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108798846
Edition number: New ed