In the Circle of the Family: Seminar on Marxist-Feminist Critique of the Family

In the Circle of the Family – Seminar on Marxist-Feminist Critique of the Family

The family has been described by some as the germ cell of the bourgeois state, and by others as a hotbed of patriarchal violence. Due to its significant role in the capitalist organization of production with gendered division of labor, it has been the subject of criticism from feminist, communist, and socialist movements. In our seminar, we will discuss the history of left-wing criticism of the family using the text "Abolish the Family" by M. E. O´Brian. After this overview, we will turn to the question of the current state of the family: What function does it still serve against the backdrop of diversification and liberalization (from patchwork to rainbow families)? What role does it play in social reproduction under capitalism, and what are its consequences for gender relations, even in light of their changes? We will discuss these questions using the texts "Rethinking Reproduction" and "Family Values" by Melinda Cooper.

After registration, we will send you the texts. If requested, we can provide you with the German translation of "Family Values." Please read the texts in advance, as we have not scheduled reading time on the seminar day.