Intersectional approaches to Science & Banu Subramaium’s “Snow Brown and the Seven Detergents: A Metanarrative on Science and the Scientific Method

intersectionality development  Developed by Kimberle Crenshaw, 1989  Combahee River Collective: “simultaneity” & “interlocking oppressions” (1977)  Later expanded upon by Patricia Hill Collins: “matrix of domination”  A hallmark theory of WoC feminisms

intersectionality definition  Various axes of identity—race, class, gender, nationality, sexuality, ability (etc.)—interact simultaneously in shaping a person’s relationship to power  These axes are inseparable; mutually reinforcing  Thus, according to one’s social locations, privilege and oppression will be experienced in various ways, to varying degrees, according to circumstance

intersectionality …why?  Reaction to second wave feminism, which privileged gender/sex discrimination:  Rhetoric of sisterhood  Leadership & goals of the movement…who benefitted?  More accurate & contextualized description of experiences of oppression:  Sometimes race (etc.) may predominate  Didn’t seek to alienate men

intersectionality consequences  Meaningful critique of “feminism- as-usual”  Far more complex understanding of feminism, its constituents, & goals  Far more inclusive—and therefore successful—movement

Written discussion questions:  What are the differences between Subramanium’s three endings?  Which ending(s) do you think best reflects the state of science education and practice in the U.S. today…and why?

Written discussion questions:  If appreciation for how intersecting identities and positionalities can influence scientific education and research was the norm, what outcome(s) would you anticipate for science as a whole? (Positive and/or negative)