Deconstruction, Feminist Theology, and the Problem of Difference

This book explores the intersection of deconstruction and feminist theology, highlighting how Jacques Derrida and Luce Irigaray's ideas can address feminism's racial biases and propose new ways to understand race and gender.

Deconstruction, Feminist Theology, and the Problem of Difference by Ellen T. Armour explores the intersection of deconstruction and feminist theory, particularly in relation to race. The book argues that while feminism promises to challenge various forms of oppression faced by women, it has often fallen short in addressing how race complicates gender issues. Armour seeks to bridge this gap by demonstrating how the philosophical frameworks of Jacques Derrida and Luce Irigaray can help reveal the underlying racial assumptions within feminist discourse.

Armour delves into the writings of Derrida and Irigaray to highlight the limitations of traditional feminist thought, which frequently centers on white experiences and perspectives. By employing deconstruction, she uncovers the implicit biases that exist within feminist theory, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the interplay between race and gender. She examines Derrida's concept of woman and Irigaray's notion of multiple woman, providing insights into how these ideas can reshape feminist theology and theory.

Furthermore, Armour draws on the work of prominent African-American theorists such as bell hooks, Hortense Spillers, and Patricia Hill Collins to propose a way forward that transcends the race/gender divide. By integrating these diverse voices, she offers a more inclusive framework that acknowledges the complexities of identity and oppression. Ultimately, the book invites readers to reconsider the foundations of feminist thought and to embrace a more intersectional approach that recognizes the significance of race in discussions of gender.