What to read after Women and Economics?

Charlotte Perkins Gilman's 'Women and Economics' is a pioneering work of feminist economic analysis that remains a foundational text in the study of women's history and feminist theory. Originally published in 1898, the book dissects the economic dependency of women on men and the consequent effect on both genders and society at large. Grounded in the intellectual rigor of Gilman's time and prefiguring later feminist scholarship, the text stands out for its persuasive prose and prescient advocacy for women's economic independence. It situates within the broader canvas of social evolution, arguing for the pivotal role of economic autonomy in advancing marital reform, parenthood, domestic life, and societal progress at large. The book reflects the zeitgeist of the late 19th century, conversing with the likes of Jane Addams and John Dewey while also hinting at the theories that would later be expounded by Betty Friedan and Simone de Beauvoir. As an influential feminist, sociologist, and writer, Charlotte Perkins Gilman's work was informed by her personal experiences and the broader movement for women's rights in which she was deeply entrenched. 'Women and Economics' germinated from both her harrowing battle with postpartum psychosis, as detailed in her short story 'The Yellow Wallpaper,' and her fervent belief in the transformative power of economic autonomy for women—a radical idea for her time. Gilman's lucid analysis and advocacy are a testament to her role as a groundbreaking thinker and social reformer. The book served not only to critique the status quo but also to envision a more equitable world, laying the groundwork for subsequent feminist discourse. Gilman's 'Women and Economics' is essential reading not merely for those interested in the early stages of feminist thought, but for anyone seeking to understand the historical intersections of gender, economy, and social change. It will resonate with readers captivated by economic history, gender studies, and the development of feminist ideology. As relevant today as when it first appeared, this work invites readers to reflect on the progress made and the journey ahead in the quest for gender equality. It is an indispensable addition to the libraries of scholars and lay readers alike, providing a challenging yet inspiring narrative on the power of women's economic enfranchisement.