Feminist epistemology: Possibilities of postmodern feminist standpoint theory

Abstract

This article explores the possibilities of postmodern feminist standpoint theory as being one of the more prominent feminist epistemologies. The context of this epistemology is introduced, while stressing the importance of establishing a classification of feminist epistemologies that recognizes postmodernism as a key part of feminist empiricism and feminist standpoint theory. Analyses of the essential themes of feminist standpoint theory are undertaken from the postmodern perspective, emphasizing the discursive nature of social reality. We examine the political possibilities of this epistemology, indicating the need for a different conceptualization of the political subject. The subject is understood as constituted, rather than determined, by discourse. Bearing this in mind, we question the importance of retaining various prediscursive foundations of feminist politics. We consider a postmodern feminist standpoint to be a specific type of discourse, while underscoring the deficiency of distinguishing between discourse and material reality. Understanding our social situatedness is identified as a main goal of postmodern feminist standpoint theory.