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Charlotte Perkins Gilman's contributions to classical sociological theory
Abstract
The work of Charlotte Perkins Gilman has gone virtually unnoticed in the discipline of sociology. Her theoretical contributions alter current conceptualizations of the theoretical foundations of the discipline. Working from the perspectives of cultural feminism, reform Darwinism, and Fabian socialism, Gilman sought to halt the unnatural progression of humanity and wrote social theories that rival the "masters" of sociological thought. Through her lectures and writings about the evils of women's oppression, Gilman worked toward large-scale social reform in the United States. Always concerned with "humanity," not just women, Gilman sought change through peaceful means such as education and scientific knowledge. However, despite Gilman's humanitarian concerns, she did not advocate social equality. In her attempts to free women from domestic labor, she is not addressing the concerns of all women (or men). Specifically, Gilman sought to free white, middle/upper-class women from the confines of the home while training an "inferior" laboring class. In addition, Gilman does not recognize heterosexual alternatives. In fact, Gilman extolls the virtues of heterosexual marriage at the expense of all other potential unions. Finally, her belief in eugenics is overtly racist and nationalist and limits the applicability of her theories.
Subject Area
Social research|Womens studies
Recommended Citation
Cannon, Julie Ann Harms, "Charlotte Perkins Gilman's contributions to classical sociological theory" (1997). ETD collection for University of Nebraska-Lincoln. AAI9734609.
https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/dissertations/AAI9734609