This introduction presents, in a readable, lively style, an overview of feminism as an essentially contested field of theory and political engagement. Renee Heberle offers readers a unique approach to studying feminisms in the plural, combining historical and theoretical perspectives on the academic and political lives of the term "feminism." While the popular imagination identifies feminism in the singular with political activity about women's rights, this book introduces readers to diverse, historically significant, critical perspectives and interventions. Heberle's approach demonstrates the ongoing relevance of feminisms to contemporary political thinking and practice. This book will be particularly useful in upper-division undergraduate classrooms and introductory courses at the graduate level of study. It is written in an accessible narrative form that will also appeal to the non-academic reader.

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Feminisms: The Basics is a fresh introduction to our understanding of feminisms and feminist theories.