Theorising Gender

A social theory of gender is implied and required by current sexual politics. Its scope cannot be defined a priori, but can be defined practically by the reach of a network of arguments generated by feminism, gay liberation, psychoanalysis and some branches of academic sociology and psychology. Two main types of theory have emerged: one emphasising attitudes and social expectations, centring on the idea of `sex roles'; the other presupposing the categories of `women' and `men' and focussing on power relations between them. Criticisms of both general approaches to gender relations are outlined. An argument is advanced for a modification of the second, centring on the practices that constitute gender categories. Some examples of this third approach are mentioned. The problem of `natural difference' can be handled in a practice-based theory of gender by a radical reversal of usual assumptions about biological `bases' of gender, stressing negation and practical transcendence. Some political implications of this approach to theory are raised.