Many young women today consider "feminism" a dirty word, an antiquated term that hasn't expanded to accommodate the diverse needs of a new generation. In addition, decades of negative campaigns, excessively "messaged" issues, and hanging chads have all combined to make political apathy appear not only smart, but also sexy. The result is that while they still bemoan the state of gender politics, gender equity, and the agendas of their local, state, and national politicians, nearly 19 million young women chose not to vote in the last election. Yes, the face of feminism is changing, but to what end? Is a new generation taking for granted the rights hard-won only a generation before? And by focusing on cultural-not electoral-politics, are women today giving their power away? In this pivotal book, Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner, environmental and political consultant, asks these critical questions, tracing feminism's distinguished past and exploring new developments in American political history, asking what can be done to protect and further women's rights and freedoms. The F-Word is truly an astonishing look at the tenuous state of women's rights and issues in America, and a call to action for the young women who have the power to change their situation. --- from the publisher |
