Helen Charman, a Fellow at Cambridge and author of "Mother State," delves into how motherhood intertwines with political history and activism. Caitlin Killian, a sociology professor, discusses the increasing pressures on mothers and the unfair standards applied compared to fathers. They explore the evolution of motherhood, the criminalization of mothers’ actions, and advocate for rebalancing parental responsibilities. The conversation sheds light on the challenges and transformations that shape maternal identities in today's society.
Motherhood is a political state that challenges societal norms and illuminates the diverse experiences of mothers from various backgrounds.
Mothers today face increased scrutiny and accountability compared to fathers, reflecting evolving societal standards and expectations of parenting.
Deep dives
Expanding the Conversation on Motherhood
The discussion highlights the necessity to broaden the focus on motherhood beyond traditional narratives that often center around middle-class, white, straight experiences. The argument emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diverse realities faced by mothers from different backgrounds, thus enriching the understanding of motherhood as a political and social issue. By examining motherhood through the lens of sociology, the conversation seeks to connect personal experiences of mothering with broader political contexts, especially in Britain and Northern Ireland post-1970s. This approach aims to elevate the discourse around motherhood, integrating it into mainstream sociopolitical discussions rather than relegating it to a private or domestic sphere.
The Political Implications of Motherhood
The title 'Mother State' encapsulates the multifaceted relationship between mothers and the state, addressing how state policies can both support and hinder maternal roles. Key examples include the regulation surrounding abortion and reproductive rights, illustrating how state legislation dictates mothers' choices and access to care. Historical events, such as debates over the use of chloroform during childbirth, highlight the ways medical practices have been intertwined with societal expectations of motherhood. This framing suggests that mothers are often viewed as public goods within policy discussions, raising questions about maternal autonomy and agency in society.
Maternal Activism and Its Challenges
The history of maternal activism illustrates the significant role mothers have played in various social movements, from workplace disputes to campaigns against nuclear power. During the 1970s and 80s, mothers leveraged their unique perspectives and experiences to engage in activism, often aligning their maternal identities with broader political causes. However, this activism faced depoliticization as societal perceptions often categorized their efforts as domestic rather than political. This ongoing struggle underscores the need for recognition of mothers as political agents capable of driving change in public discourse and policy.
Laurie Taylor talks to Helen Charman, Fellow and Assistant College Lecturer in English at Clare College, University of Cambridge, about her study of mothers fighting for alternative futures for themselves and their children. Is motherhood an inherently political state, one that poses challenges to various status quos? Also, Caitlin Killian - Professor of Sociology, Drew University, Madison, New Jersey argues that US mums are held to ever higher standards and now subject to an expanding list of offences - from falling down the stairs while pregnant to letting a child spend time alone in a park - which were not seen as criminal behaviours a generation ago. Are mothers likelier to be held accountable than fathers?
Producer: Jayne Egerton
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