Situating Standpoints Negotiating a Queer Perspective in Feminist Theory
Date of Award
2007
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Humanities
First Advisor
Edidin, Aron
Keywords
Feminist Standpoint Theory, Queer Theory, Postmodernism
Area of Concentration
Philosophy
Abstract
Starting from the premise that human activity structures human understanding, feminist standpoint theorist Sandra Harding argues for women's lives as grounds for an advantageous standpoint through which it is possible to maximize objectivity and initiate a successor science project. Informed by postmodernist considerations, Donna Haraway refutes the notion of an advantageous standpoint, arguing instead for situated knowledges as a candidate model for a feminist epistemology. A critique of feminist standpoint theory developed from queer theory exposes the weaknesses of Harding's feminist standpoint, including essentialism and the reproduction of oppression through a gender binary. Feminist criticisms of postmodernism cast doubt on the desirability of Haraway's situated knowledges. A version of a feminist standpoint benefiting from the insights of both criticisms is suggested. Suggestions include targeting operations of power inherent in standpoint and removing gender as the principal category of feminist standpoint theory.
Recommended Citation
Mantilla, Cesar, "Situating Standpoints Negotiating a Queer Perspective in Feminist Theory" (2007). Theses & ETDs. 3824.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3824
Rights
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