The F-Word: Feminism in Jeopardy; Women, Politics, and the Future

by Marie C. Wilson and Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner

Book Overview

Many young women today consider "feminism" a dirty word, an antiquated term that hasn't expanded to accommodate the diverse needs of a new generation. In addition, decades of negative campaigns, excessively "messaged" issues, and hanging chads have all combined to make political apathy appear not only smart, but sexy. The result is that while they still bemoan the state of gender politics, gender equity, and the agendas of their local, state, and...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1580051146
• ISBN13: 9781580051149
• Release Date: August 2004
• Publisher: Seal Press (CA)
• Length: 332 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.5" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

An eye-opening read

This is one of those books I'd like to put into the hands of all my friends - I found valuable insights into the plight of women's rights in every section of every chapter, and if every section didn't apply directly to me, it did apply to someone I know. Because the women's rights movement has been ongoing for so long, and the bra-burning days are mercifully behind us, lots of people (both male and female) seem to think it's all better and women don't have any more problems balancing work, family, and life. This book does a nice job of exploring the issues women still face, with a particular emphasis on issues facing young women, those of us who grew up after the main thrust of the movement. The first few chapters cover the history of the women's rights movement, up to the present day, which Rowe-Finkbeiner characterizes as the 'third wave'. She then turns to a discussion of the issues that face women on college campuses, in the workplace, and at home with partners and children. The last few chapters explore how these areas of women's lives are influenced by our government, specifically, the legislative process and its products, and how young women can (and must) become more proactive in the process. One of the other reviewers commented on the repetitive preachiness of Rowe-Finkbeiner's message, that is, that women, especially young women, must understand the importance of the political process in their lives, and then must channel that importance into taking action. It is true that most sections close with that idea - but that's the idea. If reading even one section of one chapter can make a person think, "hey, that applies to me," and then make them want to become more aware about political issues, then the book has done its job. I found the book to be extremely readable. It stayed on point within each topic, and was full of real-life examples of women facing the situations being discussed. Each chapter is narrowly focused, but the topics flow together seamlessly from one chapter to the next. The ideas are thoroughly researched and engagingly presented. Another thing I really like are the grey boxes scattered throughout the book, chok full of resources and quick information relevant to the main topics. And in the back, there's a guide for reading/discussion groups, an appendix titled "how to run and win", and another appendix of contact information for activist organizations, government resources, political parties, and research groups. All in all, this is truly recommended reading for all young women.

Inspiring read

The F-Word made me wake up and realize that I can make a difference. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to know what is really going on with today's American women. It was great to peek into other women's lives and see what is important to them and how they handle day-to-day issues big and small. Those who are interested in learning about modern feminism and the "third wave", along with the historical context of equal rights in our nation will also be happy with this book. The reading group guide in the back makes this a great book group pick.

Who's telling the truth?

Oh, Spike in San Antonio. It's so hard to believe that sexism exists, isn't it? I'm not sure where your numbers come from, as your logic seems tenuous, at best, but according to that left-wing, liberal think tank known as the US Census Bureau, Rowe-Finkbeiner is right. And it's getting worse. The Census Bureau reported in August, based on the Current Population Survey, that women's real median earnings fell by $171, or 0.6 percent, from 2002 to 2003, while men's increased by $336, or 0.8 percent. (The increase for men was not statistically significant, but the decrease for women was.) The gender wage ratio thus fell to 75.5, compared with 76.6 in 2002. In addition, a U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) report released in October of 2003, controlling for changes in education and work experience over time, concludes that women¹s earnings have remained stagnant, relative to men's, for an even longer period--17 years--with a gap that cannot be explained by measurable differences in education and experience. If you actually read The F-Word, you might find cited cases like this: Although women make up nearly 3/4 of Wal-Mart's workforce, men hold 90% of management positions--despite female employee's receiving better performance evaluations overall--and female employees are paid lower wages than male employees for the same jobs. None of this is disputed by the corporation. Why? According to Wal-Mart, because men are there for a career, while women are working for pocket money. I wish I could say your attitude was merely naive--but the truth is it's far more dangerous and insidious. Thanks to Rowe-Finbeiner for telling it how it really is.

A must read for all women

An outstanding breakthrough book. "The F-Word" is a well-researched and accessible book, suitable for feminists young, older and the pioneers of the women's movement. Alas, a book that highlights the threat to female democracy. Thank you, Ms. Rowe-Finkbeiner, for spelling out the disaffection that thwarts the female agenda in today's political arena. Let this book be the catalyst for the next generation of women in future politics.

Great Book

It's been a long time since I read a book that motivated me to action like this one. Women still make 76 cents to every dollar earned by men-who knew? It's a great read and spans a lot of material-from the history of American feminism to contemporary women's issues and politics. If you want to know about women and politics, and the current state of women's issues, this is the book for you. Packed with stories from young women across the country, this book flows well and is an inspiring call to action. And, as a bonus there's a reading group guide and several how-to sections (like how-to get information about issues and candidates, how-to run for office, etc.). My book group will certainly pick this one up! The readers guide included in the book provides ample ideas to spark great discussions.