Mothering vs. Motherhood
In this episode of Rebel Mothers, Susie explores the significance of the language used to describe motherhood, and how our words shape societal expectations of what it means to be a mother.
Topics include:
The complexity of motherhood language, including addressing issues of gender, race, class, location, ability, and more
Struggles and responsibilities of using inclusive and non-stereotypical language and balancing empowerment with avoiding romanticization and sexist stereotypes
Defining mothering vs motherhood, examples of how systems of patriarchy, whiteness, and capitalism affect the motherhood experience, and the difference between dominator and partnership family models
Insights on mothering from scholars like Sara Ruddick, Adrienne Rich, Andrea O'Reilly, and Patricia Hill Collins
Resources mentioned:
Sara Ruddick, Maternal Thinking: Toward a Politics of Peace
Adrienne Rich, Of Woman Born: Motherhood as Experience and Institution
Andrea O’Reilly, Matricentric Feminism: Theory, Activism, Practice
Patricia Hill Collins, Shifting the Center: Race, Class, and Feminist Theorizing About Motherhood, from the book Mothering: Ideology, Experience, and Agency
Thank you for listening! Remember to subscribe, share, and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!
