Feminist sociology is a subfield of sociology that applies feminist perspectives and methodologies to the study of social phenomena, with a focus on gender inequality, gender relations, and the social construction of gender within society. It examines how gender intersects with other social categories such as race, class, sexuality, and nationality to shape individuals’ experiences, opportunities, and identities, as well as how systems of power, privilege, and oppression operate within social structures and institutions.

Key themes and areas of inquiry within feminist sociology include:

1. Gender Inequality and Patriarchy: Feminist sociology analyzes the structural and institutional sources of gender inequality within society, with a focus on understanding how patriarchy, as a system of male domination and privilege, shapes social relations, institutions, and ideologies. It examines how gender inequalities are manifested in areas such as education, employment, politics, family, and health care, as well as how they intersect with other forms of social inequality.
2. Intersectionality: Feminist sociology emphasizes the intersectional nature of gender, recognizing that individuals’ experiences of gender are shaped by multiple intersecting social categories such as race, class, sexuality, and ability. It examines how intersecting systems of oppression and privilege create unique experiences of gender inequality for individuals with different social identities, and how intersectionality informs feminist theories and methodologies.
3. Gendered Division of Labor: Feminist sociology explores the ways in which gender shapes patterns of work, labor force participation, and household responsibilities within society. It examines how gendered expectations and norms influence individuals’ occupational choices, career trajectories, and experiences of work, as well as how gendered divisions of labor within households contribute to inequalities in income, power, and decision-making.
4. Sexuality and Sexual Politics: Feminist sociology investigates the social construction of sexuality and the ways in which norms, values, and power dynamics shape individuals’ sexual identities, behaviors, and relationships. It examines issues such as sexual objectification, sexual violence, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ rights, as well as how feminist movements advocate for sexual autonomy, consent, and social justice.
5. Feminist Methodologies: Feminist sociology develops and applies feminist methodologies that center the perspectives and experiences of marginalized individuals, challenge traditional research methods, and promote participatory, reflexive, and ethical approaches to research. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating diverse voices, intersectional analyses, and feminist ethics into sociological research, as well as the value of engaging with communities and social movements to address real-world issues.
6. Social Change and Activism: Feminist sociology considers the role of feminist movements and activism in challenging gender inequalities and promoting social change within society. It examines how feminist theories and praxis inform strategies for political organizing, advocacy, and policy reform, as well as how feminist activists collaborate with other social justice movements to address intersecting forms of oppression and build coalitions for social transformation.

Overall, feminist sociology provides critical insights into the social construction of gender and the ways in which gender intersects with other social categories to shape individuals’ lives and social structures. It emphasizes the importance of addressing gender inequality, promoting gender justice, and advancing feminist agendas for social change within sociology and beyond.