Book Review: Misogyny: The New Activism

Misogyny: The New Activism, by Gail Ukockis, Oxford University Press, 2019, ISBN 978-0-19-087634-0, 336 pages, $24.95.

    Misogyny: The New Activism is, at heart, an inspiration to those who have already embraced modern feminism. It contextualizes feminist theory and relates it to recent and current issues in politics, popular culture, and media (mainstream and social). In addition to its appeal to self-identified feminists (of all genders), it provides persuasive evidence and anecdotes with the potential to convince even those who would reject the “feminist” label to embrace a role in anti-misogynistic activism. The spectrum of evidence within this book makes it accessible to people from various backgrounds, including academia. This work would be beneficial in both undergraduate and graduate studies, as a primary text in courses related to gender and women’s studies, as well as a supplement to coursework on politics, policy, and social justice.  Not only would it inform work with clients, but it would inform teaching and interactions with colleagues and students.

    Dr. Ukockis sets forth very clear and concrete steps for engagement in effective activism.  In doing so, she is frank, candid, and very real, and uses a myriad of examples to demonstrate the pervasiveness of this harmful ideology. Nobody reading this book with an open mind will be left with any doubt that misogyny is real and violent, or that every person can and should have a role in fighting it. The presence of misogyny in its many forms is demonstrated on multiple levels, from national leadership to everyday interactions at home, at work, and in society in general, helping readers to become aware of their own part in and their interactions with misogyny and misogynistic behavior.   

    Although there is some discussion of these topics, the author might have considered more in-depth discussion of the intersectionality of sex and gender with other marginalized identities, such as gender identity and race, as minority identity enhances the impact of misogyny (such as misogynoir). Non-White individuals and those who are not cisgender women have been excluded from much of the more recent activism, while doing some of the most effective work.  Overall, though, this is an excellent, relatable read with application in many areas of social work education and practice.  

Reviewed by Jennifer L. Wood, PhD, MSW, Assistant Professor of Social Work, The College at Brockport, State University of New York.