New Books in Sociology
Gretchen Sisson, "Relinquished: The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood" (St. Martin's Press, 2024)
Oct 12, 2024
Gretchen Sisson, a qualitative sociologist from UCSF, dives deep into the politics surrounding adoption and its implications for women's choices in her new book, 'Relinquished.' She uncovers the challenging realities that mothers face when relinquishing their children, particularly in the context of the overturned Roe v. Wade. Sisson critiques the commodification of adoption, the racial dynamics at play, and how these systems perpetuate reproductive injustice. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of amplifying the voices of relinquishing mothers and calls for urgent reform in adoption practices.
01:09:14
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Adoption is often misrepresented as a positive choice, neglecting the coercion and systemic pressures faced by relinquishing mothers.
- The historical context of family separation in America reveals how issues of race and socio-economic status continue to influence adoption practices today.
Deep dives
The Framework of Reproductive Justice
Reproductive justice extends beyond the right to abortion, focusing instead on the broader spectrum of reproductive choices and their implications. This framework emphasizes the importance of supporting parents in raising their families in safe and sustainable environments. Often overlooked in the discourse surrounding reproductive politics, adoption is framed as a positive alternative, which can detract from addressing the challenges faced by individuals who relinquish their children. Emphasizing the necessity of understanding adoption through this lens reveals the complexities and nuances of parental choices and societal influences on these decisions.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
