Denise Mochid reviewed Transgender Marxism by Jules Joanne Gleeson
A weapon in the hands of any trans worker!
5 stars
In 14 essays from different trans authors a trans-specific reading of Marxism is outlined from different perspectives. Mostly, the essays focus on the sphere of social reproduction, the way how capitalism continuously reproduces itself, its labor force, and the notion of gender. Here, trans people are facing and overcoming challenges which are experienced in a more sublimed form by all workers: Capitalism's violent forming of bodies and minds into docile and gendered workers, the constant threat of expulsion from the limited areas of rest and recreation, and the devaluing of workers due to their transgressions against the ideal of a white, cis, hetero, able-bodied, and male worker.
The essays differ widely in their form. Some are artistic observations of unique moments and others theoretical works in their own right. I admittedly didn't understand everything. Critically reading a complex and at times theory-ladden work like this requires a knowledge not everyone …
In 14 essays from different trans authors a trans-specific reading of Marxism is outlined from different perspectives. Mostly, the essays focus on the sphere of social reproduction, the way how capitalism continuously reproduces itself, its labor force, and the notion of gender. Here, trans people are facing and overcoming challenges which are experienced in a more sublimed form by all workers: Capitalism's violent forming of bodies and minds into docile and gendered workers, the constant threat of expulsion from the limited areas of rest and recreation, and the devaluing of workers due to their transgressions against the ideal of a white, cis, hetero, able-bodied, and male worker.
The essays differ widely in their form. Some are artistic observations of unique moments and others theoretical works in their own right. I admittedly didn't understand everything. Critically reading a complex and at times theory-ladden work like this requires a knowledge not everyone has access to and I myself don't have at the moment. However, it is a great starting point from which to learn more about queerness, Marxism, feminism, and social theory in general. I highly recommend it!