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Why Kant and Ecofeminism Don't Mix

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  25 March 2020

Abstract

This paper consists of two sections. In section one, I explore Val Plumwood's description of the features of normative dualism, and briefly discuss how these features are manifest in Immanuel Kant's view of nature. In section two, I evaluate the claims of Holly L. Wilson, who argues that Kant is not a normative dualist. Against Wilson, I will argue that Kant maintains normative dualisms between humans/nature, humans/animals, humans I culture, and men/women. As such, Kant's philosophy is antithetical to the aims of ecofeminism, which seeks to expose and dismantle such dualistic thinking.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © 2001 by Hypatia, Inc.

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