Searching for Scientific Womanpower: Technocratic Feminism and the Politics of National Security, 1940-1980 (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781469610818)

This compelling history of what Laura Micheletti Puaca terms "technocratic feminism" traces contemporary feminist interest in science to the World War II and early Cold War years. During a period when anxiety about America's supply of scientific personnel ran high and when open support for women's rights generated suspicion, feminist reformers routinely invoked national security rhetoric and scientific "manpower" concerns in their efforts to advance women's education and employment. Despite the limitations of this strategy, it laid the groundwork for later feminist reforms in both science and society. The past and present manifestations of technocratic feminism also offer new evidence of what has become increasingly recognized as a "long women's movement."

Drawing on an impressive array of archival collections and primary sources, Puaca brings to light the untold story of an important but largely overlooked strand of feminist activism. This book reveals much about the history of American feminism, the politics of national security, and the complicated relationship between the two.

Author: Laura Micheletti Puaca
ISBN-10: 1469610817
ISBN-13: 9781469610818
Publisher: University of North Carolina Press
Language: English
Published: 06/02/2014
Pages: 278
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.90lbs
Size: 9.20h x 6.10w x 0.80d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 10/01/2014 pg. 330