Introduction: Why Citizenship?

Abstract

Why citizenship and, more specifically, why women’s citizenship? I was asked this question recently at a conference by a feminist academic who clearly regarded current feminist preoccupation with what she perceived as an irretrievably White male, and therefore not very helpful, concept as a waste of time. To be asked such a provocative question is salutary; it is a useful reminder that not everyone shares one’s own fascination with a subject. It is, therefore, perhaps appropriate to introduce this book by explaining why I believe the topic is an important one. In doing so, I hope to convey some of the intellectual and political excitement that I have experienced in exploring the question of women’s citizenship and to persuade the sceptical that, despite the problems with the concept, it is one with which feminists can usefully engage.