Which theory focuses on understanding gender inequality without a single overarching explanation?

Post-feminist theory is oriented toward understanding gender inequality as a nuanced and multifaceted phenomenon, which resists a singular, overarching explanation. It suggests that gender experiences are shaped by various factors, including social class, race, sexuality, and cultural context. This perspective recognizes that while feminism has made significant strides in addressing gender issues, it must also adapt and consider the complexities and diversities of women’s experiences in contemporary society.

In contrast to this, structuralist theory tends to focus more on the underlying structures, such as economic or social systems, that dictate individuals’ roles and relationships, which may not capture the multifaceted nature of gender inequality. Marxist theory typically emphasizes class struggle and economic factors as the primary drivers of inequality, often sidelining the specific aspects of gender. Critical race theory addresses issues of racism and intersectionality, highlighting how race and ethnicity interact with other social categories, but it is not solely focused on gender. Thus, post-feminist theory provides a broader lens that encompasses various dimensions influencing gender inequality.