When Harry Became Sally | Interview: Carole Hooven

In 'Gender Trouble,' Judith Butler challenges traditional notions of gender and sex, arguing that gender is not an innate or natural aspect of human identity but rather a social construct that is performed and reinforced through societal norms and behaviors. Butler distinguishes between sex, which refers to biological traits, and gender, which is a constructed category. She introduces the concept of 'performativity,' suggesting that gender is created through repeated actions and performances. The book critiques the binary gender system and explores how non-normative sexual practices and identities can subvert and challenge traditional gender categories. Butler's work has been influential in feminist theory, queer theory, and LGBTQ activism, and continues to be a foundational text in gender studies.

In 'The War Against Boys,' Christina Hoff Sommers argues that boys are falling behind in education due to policies that favor girls, leading to significant social and economic costs. She proposes solutions such as boy-friendly pedagogy and vocational education to address these issues. The book challenges the notion that girls are the only disadvantaged group in education, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that supports both genders.