The question of difference has always been a controversial issue for feminists. This is certainly true in the case of epistemological questions. What difference does the adoption of a feminist perspective make in relation to traditional knowledge? How are feminist perspectives themselves affected by the difference between women? Both questions require a re-evaluation of issues of objectivity and the justification of knowledge claims in a way that focuses on the subjects who constitute the knowledge producers. Using approaches and methods from both analytic and continental thinking, this collection addresses traditional epistemology and issues raised by postmodern critiques. "Knowing the Difference" features contributions from an international list of contributors including Rosi Braidotti, Gemma Corradi Fiumara, Sabina Lovibond, Liz Stanley and Anna Yeatman, as well as a range of new and innovative thinkers. Margaret Whitford has also published "Merleau-Ponty's Critique of Sartre's Philosophy" (French Forum, 1982); "Feminist Perspectives in Philosophy", co-edited with Morwenna Griffiths (Macmillan 1988, and Indiana University Press, 1988); and "Luce Irigaray: Philosophy in the Femin

eBook available with sample pages: HB:0415089883

An ideal introduction to Igigaray's whole corpus, which includes previously untranslated texts.

..". excellent... Especially insightful are articles on ethics and gender, autonomy and pornography, feelings, and a responsible and democratic epistemology." Choice The essays in this book introduce to American readers the work of a group of British feminist philosophers, representing both the Continental and the analytic traditions, who argue that philosophy is in urgent need of a feminist perspective."

"Engaging with Irigaray" is the first collection of essays that attempts to go beyond the question of essentialism in order to provide a full critical assessment of Irigaray's contribution to a number of fields, notably philosophy. By reconsidering Irigaray's writings in the field of European thought and politics in which she positions herself, the authors of these essays--among them Judith Butler, Elizabeth Weed, and Rosi Braidotti--shed new light on the relationship of Irigaray to many of the philosophers she has "romanced," from Aristotle to Deleuze.

This collection of essays will be invaluable to readers interested both in continental feminism and the intellectual engagement of an international group of scholars grappling with the issues of gender difference, sexuality, and women's politics between women and with men.