Marxism Reading Group: Social Reproduction Theory

Socialists have long been involved in the fight against gender inequality, aided by Marxist analyses of gender, the family, and domestic labor. Social reproduction theory is one of the most influential traditions to explore these matters, bringing rigor to provocative but at times cryptic comments left behind by Marx and Engels. In this session, we will read three of the most influential accounts of reproduction, including Lise Vogel’s pioneering theory and Angela Y. Davis’s bold prediction that socialism might make domestic labor “obsolete."

Readings:

• Vogel, "Domestic Labor Revisited"
• Gimenez, "From Social Reproduction to Capitalist Social Reproduction"
• Davis, "The Approaching Obsolescence of Housework"

Suggested Additional Readings:

• Vogel, Marxism & the Oppression of Women
• Brenner & Ramas, "Rethinking Women's Oppression"
• Hothschild & Machung, The Second Shift
• Carbone & Cahn, Marriage Markets

Zoom Link
Meeting ID: 994 9945 0800

About the Series

Philly DSA's Marxism Reading Group explores a range of topics in Marxist theory. Sessions will focus on big picture ideas, unpacking fundamental concepts of historical, political, and economic analysis, as well as more specific debates focused on issues such as class, the State, gender, imperialism, colonialism, hegemony, and history. Along the way, we'll read some of the most influential writers in the Marxist tradition, including David Harvey, Angela Davis, GA Cohen, CLR James, EP Thompson, and Rosa Luxemburg. Whether you’re curious about Marxism, a longtime activist, or an expert Marxologist, please join us!

Schedule

September 9: What is Historical Materialism?
September 23: Class I: Formation vs. Location
October 7: Class II: The Professional-Managerial Class
October 21: Imperialism I: Early Theories of Imperialism
November 4: Imperialism II: Underdevelopment & the New Imperialism
November 18: Imperialism III: Colonialism & The Post-Colony
December 02: Social Reproduction Theory