Group Representation, Feminist Theory, and the Promise of Justice

Ledford (political science, College of St. Rose) presents an analysis of group representation from the position of three feminist political theorists, which she describes in terms of insights and limitations. They are Lani Guinier, who calls for electoral reform while remaining skeptical of special interest groups; Anne Phillips, who also "rejects a robust form of group representation" while vexed by "what does equality allow?"; and Iris Marion Young, who Ledford argues could provide answers to the other two with an intersectional view of political mobilization. This leads Ledford to examine in later chapters the politics of democratic inclusion and the fracturing of political will through manufactured interests. She concludes by arguing for "a feminist politics of inclusion" that advocates both electoral action and broad-based support for grassroots organization in order to "provide incentives for the increased participation of historically disadvantaged groups." Annotation c2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Angela D. Ledford is an Associate Professor of Political Science at The College of Saint Rose, where she teaches subjects including political theory, American government, and gender politics.