The Riddle of Gender: Science, Activism, and Transgender Rights
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Book Overview
When Deborah Rudacille learned that a close friend had decided to transition from female to male, she felt compelled to understand why. Coming at the controversial subject of transsexualism from several angles-historical, sociological, psychological, medical-Rudacille discovered that gender variance is anything but new, that changing one's gender has been met with both acceptance and hostility through the years, and that gender identity, like sexual orientation, appears to be inborn, not learned, though in some people the sex of the body does not match the sex of the brain. Informed not only by meticulous research, but also by the author's interviews with prominent members of the transgender community, The Riddle of Gender is a sympathetic and wise look at a sexual revolution that calls into question many of our most deeply held assumptions about what it means to be a man, a woman, and a human being.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0385721978
ISBN13:9780385721974
Release Date:February 2006
Publisher:Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group
Length:400 Pages
Weight:0.72 lbs.
Dimensions:0.8" x 5.3" x 8.1"
Related Subjects
Behavioral Sciences Civil Rights Civil Rights & Liberties Elections & Political Process Gender Studies Health, Fitness & Dieting Health, Fitness & Dieting Nonfiction Political Advocacy Political Science Politics & Government Politics & Social Sciences Psychology Psychology & Counseling Science & Math Social Science Social Sciences Specific Topics TransgenderCustomer Reviews
2 ratings
Meticulous, scholarly, indespensible
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
This books contains exhaustive research on the medical and societal history of transsexualism, all the theories of its possible causes, everything. Having recently decided to face my own gender issues, I found this book immensely informative and felt a million times less alone. The scientific parts can be a tiny bit dry at times, but the information is priceless and the interviews and firsthand stories are wonderful. Told from the point of view of someone who doesn't have gender identity disorder, the book explains all the aspects of it, even for someone who doesn't know the issue firsthand--this makes it a really excellent resource for people confused by the actions of their transgendered loved ones. I bought copies for both my parents.
Scientifically researched and very well-written book on gender variance
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
As a transsexual man, this book is an invaluable resource. I had begun writings for inclusion in a website and went looking for additional books on transsexualism. This book met all my needs. It offers a seemingly thorough analysis of gender identity in regards to activism and science. I got the book from the local public library (yay libraries!!); however, I realized after the first few pages that this book had to become part of my personal library. I have already recommended it to many people and would definitely recommend it to those seeking to broaden their understanding of gender and the cultural oppression transgendered people face. I also highly recommend it to those that are transgendered because it is also a great "power to the people" book. My website will be a call to action to all those that accept and celebrate diversity with the intent of changing the current political and social limitations that have roots in ignorance and oppression. This book buoyed my resolve and validated my existence at a time that I was struggling with feeling oppressed. Thank you Deborah!
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