Ecofeminism: An Overview and Discussion of Positions and Arguments

Citation:

Plumwood, Val. 1986. “Ecofeminism: An Overview and Discussion of Positions and Arguments.” Australasian Journal of Philosophy 64: 120–38.

Author: Val Plumwood

Abstract:

The concept of "ecofeminism," which focuses on the link between the domination of women & the domination of nature, is explored, based on a review of the literature. Ecofeminist positions attribute this linkage to a set of dualisms originating in classical philosophy or to the rise of mechanistic science during the Enlightenment; alternative theories explain the link in terms of difference. It is argued that the various positions are not clearly developed & articulated in the existing literature, & alternatives are only vaguely suggested. To clarify the ecofeminist perspective, some of the dualisms that have characterized Western thought are discussed. It is concluded that ecofeminism, despite the limitations of existing texts, has the potential to integrate not only the ecological & feminist critiques, but also other sets of interrelated dualisms.

Topics: Environment, Feminisms, Ecofeminism, Gender, Women

Year: 1986