New Books Network
Sophie Lewis, "Enemy Feminisms: Terfs, Policewomen, and Girlbosses Against Liberation" (Haymarket Books, 2025)
Apr 19, 2025
Sophie Lewis, an Anglo-German writer and feminist theorist, dives into the provocative world of 'enemy feminisms' in her latest work. She critiques historical and contemporary feminisms that align with oppressive ideologies, such as TERFism and anti-abortion sentiments. The discussion emphasizes the need for antifascist, transfeminist strategies to navigate challenges like transphobia and reproductive justice. Lewis urges a deeper understanding of feminism's complex legacy, showcasing its potential to either liberate or perpetuate violence depending on its adherence to solidarity and social justice.
01:32:59
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Quick takeaways
- Sophie Lewis highlights the need for critical evaluation of feminisms, acknowledging their historical ties to harmful ideologies like racism and colonialism.
- The podcast critiques anti-sex feminisms for shifting the movement's focus away from liberation toward security, hindering broader feminist goals.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Feminism
Feminism is depicted as a multifaceted and often contradictory set of ideologies rather than an inherently progressive movement. The podcast discusses Sophie Lewis's assertion that it is essential to critically evaluate various feminist practices based on their real-world impacts. This encourages a deeper understanding of the historical ties between feminism and harmful ideologies, including racism and colonialism. By examining these connections, listeners are prompted to rethink mainstream feminist narratives and recognize the potential dangers within enemy feminisms.
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