Key Concepts and Theoretical Frameworks:

Central to WGS are several key concepts and theoretical frameworks that serve as lenses through
which gender and its intersections with race, class, sexuality, and other identities are analyzed.
Intersectionality, a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, highlights the interconnected nature of social
categorizations and how they intersect to shape individuals’ experiences of oppression or privilege.

Theories such as feminist standpoint theory emphasize the importance of lived experiences in
understanding gendered realities. Poststructuralist and queer theories, notably articulated by Judith
Butler, challenge the notion of fixed gender identities, proposing that gender is performative and
socially constructed.

Evolving Themes and Contemporary Debates:

WGS has continuously evolved to encompass a wide array of themes and contemporary debates.
Gender representation in media and popular culture, reproductive rights, the wage gap, gender-
based violence, and LGBTQ+ rights are among the prominent topics of study. The #MeToo
movement, for instance, highlighted issues of sexual harassment and assault, sparking discussions on
power dynamics and consent.

Debates within the discipline include tensions between different feminist perspectives, discussions
on sex work and its feminist implications, as well as ongoing dialogues surrounding transgender
rights and inclusion within feminist spaces. These debates underscore the dynamic nature of WGS
and its ability to adapt to societal changes and emerging issues.

Societal Impact and Relevance:

The impact of Women and Gender Studies extends beyond academia, influencing public discourse
and policy-making. It has played a pivotal role in advocating for legislative changes addressing gender