Session 21

'Feminist perspectives on International Relations' is a piece written by J. Ann Ticker which gives a good understanding of how feminist theory evolved, where it stands in relation to other theories, and the methods and approaches it entails. It ultimately gives a conclusion which emphasizes the contribution feminist theory has and sketches out the present condition of feminism as an academic field.

The piece starts off by mentioning that compared to the other social sciences feminist perspectives entered the field of International Relations relatively late and regards the 'gender neutral' view of IR as contributing to the cause. It then proceeds to mention that the early work in the field was mainly done by a series of conferences in the UK and the USA. Since then however the authors state that the work done in connection to the feminist perspective has multiplied. The entry of the feminist perspective is not regarded as a coincidence in a time when the basis, epistemological views, and foundations of IR, were being challenged by theorists and thinkers themselves. The view of 'celebration of diversity' held by feminists is regarded as reconciling Feminism with Postmodernist and International Relations thoughts, because of its stress on plurality and exhibition of the relationship between the social lives of individuals and its impact on global politics. The authors also present us with feminist views regarding developmental theory and also postmodernism. The classical view of 'the need for protection' which is based along masculine, martial and patriarchal lines that regard female and children as incapable and therefore worthy of security is also challenged through the arguments of feminist authors. The implications of excluding gender perspectives in state of nature theories and its subsequent resulting bias in the field of study is also mentioned. Ultimately the work concludes with mentioning the positive contribution feminist thought has given and suggests way in order to improve the feminist school of thought as a field in connection to International Relations.

The work mentions a study regarding Malay household labour or what the work regards as a form of 'pre-modern' labour. It is argued that what the traditional view regarding manual household labour as being a private issue beyond the reach of the state, is actually incorrect. This the work proves by mentioning the Malay state's policy regarding the labour aspect. This along with other arguments in the work go on to show the alternative narrative that the feminist school provides. Feminist perspective is therefore not only integral in providing a balanced narrative, but is essential in the construction and organization of a civic state.