Remember when being a feminist seemed straight-forward, when political discussions of sameness and difference were shaped around gender, and when radical action meant asking for, and getting, what the boys had? Ok. Maybe liberal feminism was never THAT simplistic, but the complexities of today's post-structuralist perspective, with its emphasis on the multiple, intersecting 'isms' of race, class, ethnicity, ability, look, age, language, culture, sexuality, and so forth, might make it seem so.
As an academic, I am mentally charmed by the intricacies of current feminist theories. They explore difference in its many forms. They decimate stereotypes, and popular ideals by exposing their tendencies towards totalization, normalization, and sublimation. Sounds great right? But as an activist, I am quick to wonder how this deconstructive process creates greater opportunities for inclusion in the lives of women and people? Does post-structuralist feminism bring with it a receipe for social change? How do we reconcile the radical challenge of post-structural feminism to politicize 'difference' with activism's goal to catalyze social equality?
For post-structuralist feminist activists part of the challenge lies in choosing a 'difference' to take social action around. Privileging one difference brings with it the likelihood that another may be rendered even more invisible, making possibilities of inclusion even more remote. And of course, focusing political change on a few 'isms' opens one up to the accurate charge of selective discrimination. This demonstrates the inextricable weaving together of liberal views of inclusion with exclusion - the 'hey what about me' syndrome where the acknowledgment of one group occurs at the expense of so many others.
Positive psychology may offer a way out of this conundrum, proving a viable bed-mate for paralyzed post-structuralist activists. First, positive psychology emphasizes the need for all individuals to focus on their own intrapersonal strengths, and to maximize their unique skills and experiences. This approach helps to break down the same categorical identities that post-structuralism challenge - but does it on an individual rather than an ideological basis. Second, positive psychology asks individuals to consider how social structures and interpersonal relations block achievement and curtail growth. Group membership, with its many accompanying 'isms', is treated as a significant aspect of life. Deeper understanding of the effects of these 'isms' on personal and group experiences serve to politicize group membership, 'belongingness', and social status.
Where can you start as a post-structuralist feminist cum social activist to initiate intrapersonal change, diminish judgment and breakdown categorical barriers? Well, here is one possibility: Learn about your own interpersonal strengths, and assess your own behaviour in groups. Check out: authentichappiness where you can do a series of assessments for free. Think about how these strengths contribute to the various groups you belong to. Consider areas for development, and then work on enhancing your interpersonal skills. Ask for feedback from friends and associates about how they experience you. Perhaps you are creating exclusivity or reifying categories without knowing it. Self-assessment, reflection, and mindful awareness are one key to social change. And radical social change can start with you.
